What is the best area to stay in Toronto?

Toronto, Canada's largest city and a vibrant cultural hub, welcomes over 27 million visitors each year. From trying food in Kensington Market, sightseeing in Old Town, or just relaxing by The Harbourside: here's our guide to the best area to stay in Toronto with tips and advice from our local travel experts. 

Best area to stay in Toronto for first-time visitors: Downtown

• My recommendation: The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel Toronto
• Location: Close to CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena, St. Lawrence Market, and the waterfront
• Pros: Central location with easy access to major attractions. Excellent public transportation options. Wide variety of accommodations, dining, and entertainment.
• Cons: Can be crowded and busy, especially during peak tourist season. Some areas may feel less authentic or local.

Downtown Toronto has a lot to offer you. The iconic CN Tower stands over 500 meters (1600 feet) tall over the skyline, giving you truly unforgettable views of the city and Lake Ontario. If you're a sports fan, you can catch a game at Scotiabank Arena, where the Toronto Maple Leafs and Raptors play. For a bit of history, check out the St. Lawrence Market, a historic spot that's been around since 1803.

The waterfront area is lively with parks, cultural spots, and boat tours. You'll find the atmosphere generally safe and welcoming. There's plenty more to do, like exploring the Art Gallery of Ontario, catching a show at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, or shopping at the huge Eaton Centre. Take a stroll through Kensington Market for a bohemian feel with eclectic shops, or visit Graffiti Alley to see some vibrant street art. If you need a touch of nature, enjoy a peaceful moment in Allan Gardens Conservatory.

When it comes to dining, try Canoe Restaurant on the 54th floor of a skyscraper. It offers contemporary Canadian cuisine with stunning views.

Why I love it: Downtown Toronto offers world-class attractions, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, all within a walkable area.

Best hotels in this area

• Best for a boutique stay: The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel Toronto. The Yorkville Royal Sonesta offers a luxurious boutique experience in Toronto's upscale Yorkville neighborhood. With elegant rooms, personalized service, and proximity to high-end shopping and dining, it's perfect for sophisticated urban explorers.
• Best for extended stays: One King West Hotel and Residence. One King West combines hotel amenities with apartment-style living. Its spacious suites with kitchenettes, historic charm, and central location make it ideal for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home experience in downtown Toronto.
• Best for classic elegance: Fairmont Royal York Hotel. The iconic Fairmont Royal York exudes timeless grandeur in the heart of Toronto. With its rich history, opulent décor, world-class dining, and impeccable service, it offers a truly luxurious experience for discerning travelers.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Downtown Toronto to fit any budget.

Best area to stay for foodies: Kensington Market

• My recommendation: SoHo Hotel Toronto
• Location: Close to Chinatown, Queen Street West, and downtown Toronto
• Pros: Diverse culinary offerings, vibrant street life and culture and unique shops and markets
• Cons: Limited high-end accommodations, some areas may feel a bit grungy.

Kensington Market is one of those places you just have to experience. This lively and eclectic neighborhood is a multicultural gem known for its colorful Victorian houses and a fantastic mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

When you stroll through Kensington Market, you'll find key attractions like vintage clothing stores, international grocery shops, and the iconic Kensington Market sign. The whole area has this relaxed, alternative vibe that draws in artists, students, and free spirits alike.

If you're a food enthusiast, you're in for a treat. Kensington Market is packed with unique dining options and bars. You absolutely have to try Seven Lives for their incredible Baja-style tacos, Rasta Pasta for some amazing Caribbean-Italian fusion, and Otto's Berlin Döner for authentic Turkish / German street food. Vegetarians will love Veggie D'Light, which offers delicious plant-based Caribbean cuisine.

One of the best times to visit is on the last Sunday of every month, weather permitting. That's when the streets go pedestrian-only for Pedestrian Sundays, featuring live music, street performances, and pop-up events.

Why I love it: Kensington Market is a mix of cultures, flavors, and experiences that captures the essence of Toronto's diversity.

Best hotels in this area

• Best for a boutique stay: SoHo Hotel Toronto. SoHo Hotel offers an intimate boutique experience in Toronto's Entertainment District. With spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, and personalized service, it caters to guests seeking a sophisticated urban retreat in the heart of the city.
• Best for theater lovers: Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre. Pantages Hotel, located steps from the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre, is ideal for theater enthusiasts. Its contemporary suites, proximity to performance venues, and easy access to downtown attractions make it perfect for culture-focused travelers.
• Best for a trendy stay: The Broadview Hotel. The Broadview Hotel, set in a restored Romanesque Revival building, exudes cool, East End charm. With its rooftop bar, eclectic décor, and trendy Riverside location, it's perfect for those seeking a stylish, Instagram-worthy Toronto experience.

Browse hundreds of accommodations near Kensington Market to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Toronto for families: The Harbourfront

• My recommendation: Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown
• Location: Close to Lake Ontario, downtown Toronto, and major attractions
• Pros: Scenic waterfront location, many family-friendly activities and attractions, easy access to public transportation
• Cons: Can be crowded during peak tourist season and some areas may feel touristy

The Harbourfront is a vibrant waterfront community that families will love. The area boasts beautiful parks, marinas, and the stunning Toronto Music Garden, which was designed with the help of cellist Yo-Yo Ma. 

Throughout the year, The Harbourfront hosts seasonal events like holiday markets and outdoor movie screenings, keeping the area lively and engaging for visitors of all ages. The HarbourKIDS festival, typically held during long weekends, offers interactive performances, workshops, and activities specifically for children. In the summer, you can enjoy the Summer Music in the Garden series, which provides free concerts in the Toronto Music Garden – perfect for a family picnic.

The neighborhood has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The boardwalk along the water's edge is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply watching boats sail by.

Families can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as skating at Natrel Rink in winter, relaxing at HTO Park's urban beach, or exploring the nearby Toronto Islands via ferry. For a bit of education and culture, you can check out the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery and the Toronto Marine Museum, both offering engaging exhibits and workshops.

Taking the Toronto Island Ferry is a great way to explore the car-free Toronto Islands, featuring beaches, picnic areas, and a small amusement park. 

Why I love it: The Harbourfront offers families a unique Toronto experience right on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Best hotels in this area

• Best for a boutique stay: Le Germain Hotel Maple Leaf Square. Le Germain offers a luxurious boutique experience in downtown Toronto. With stylish rooms, personalized service, and a prime location near major attractions, it's perfect for discerning travelers seeking an intimate, upscale atmosphere.
• Best for sports lovers: Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto. Located steps from Scotiabank Arena, Delta Hotels is ideal for sports fans. Enjoy modern rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to games and events. It's a perfect base for experiencing Toronto's vibrant sports scene.
• Best for waterfront views: Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown. Radisson Blu boasts stunning views of Lake Ontario and the harbor. Its prime waterfront location, modern amenities, and proximity to attractions like the CN Tower make it an excellent choice for tourists wanting to experience Toronto's scenic beauty.

Browse hundreds of accommodations by The Harbourfront to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Toronto for sightseeing: Old Town

• My recommendation: The Anndore House
• Location: Close to downtown core, St. Lawrence Market, and the Distillery District
• Pros: Rich history, great food scene, walkable, central location
• Cons: Can be busy with tourists, some areas may feel less lively at night

Old Town Toronto, also known as the St. Lawrence neighborhood, is where you'll find some of the city's most iconic landmarks. First up, there's the St. Lawrence Market, a must-visit for any food lover. It's often hailed as one of the best food markets in the world. Not far from there, you can't miss the Gooderham Building, famous for its flatiron shape.

If you're into history, you'll love the many heritage buildings around and the impressive St. James Cathedral. 

Make sure you hit up the Sunday antique market at St. Lawrence Market if you're on the hunt for unique souvenirs and collectibles. Food-wise, the area has a mix of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit any taste and budget. For something truly Toronto, try the peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery in the market, or go for some fancy Canadian cuisine at Canoe Restaurant. 

Why I love it: Old Town’s central location and walkable streets make it an ideal base for exploring the city, while its own charms ensure you'll always have something exciting to discover right on your doorstep.

Best hotels in this area

• Best for a boutique stay: The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel Toronto. This elegant boutique hotel offers sophisticated rooms in the heart of Yorkville. With personalized service, a rooftop lounge, and proximity to high-end shopping, it provides a refined experience for discerning travelers.
• Best for a trendy stay: The Anndore House. This trendy hotel combines mid-century modern aesthetics with contemporary amenities. Located in Bloor-Yorkville, it features stylish rooms, a vinyl record player in each suite, and a popular on-site restaurant and cafe.
• Best for a suite: Executive Hotel Cosmopolitan Toronto. Centrally located, this all-suite hotel caters to business travelers with spacious accommodations, kitchenettes, and a 24-hour fitness center. 

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Old Town to fit any budget.

Best area to stay for a local experience: The Annex

• My recommendation: Kimpton Saint George Hotel
• Location: Close to University of Toronto, Royal Ontario Museum, and Yorkville
• Pros: Vibrant student life, diverse dining options, bohemian atmosphere, well-connected by public transit
• Cons: Can be noisy due to student population, limited parking, some areas may feel less polished

The Annex is a charming and eclectic neighborhood that gives you an authentic taste of Toronto life. With its proximity to the University of Toronto, you'll find a mix of students, young professionals, and long-time residents.

When you visit, make sure to check out the Royal Ontario Museum. Another must-visit is the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, famous for its documentary screenings. The streets here are lined with bookshops, cafes, and quirky stores, giving the area a cool, bohemian vibe.

Bloor Street is the main hub, bustling with activity all day and night, while the quieter residential streets offer a more relaxed atmosphere. If you're into books, you'll love browsing at BMV Books or the quirky Monkey's Paw. For live music, head to Lee's Palace, known for its distinctive mural façade and awesome performances. The Bata Shoe Museum is also worth a visit, dedicated to the fascinating history of footwear. 

Lastly, make sure to stroll through Honest Ed's Alley, a vibrant laneway filled with murals that pay tribute to the iconic (now demolished) discount store that once defined the area.

Why I love it: The Annex offers a genuine taste of local culture, making it the perfect base for those seeking to immerse themselves in the city's true character.

Best hotels in this area

• Best for a boutique stay: Madison Manor Boutique Hotel. This charming Victorian-style hotel offers unique, individually decorated rooms in a historic building. Located near the University of Toronto, it provides an intimate, cozy atmosphere with personalized service and a quaint English pub.
• Best for a stylish stay: Kimpton Saint George Hotel. Featuring sleek, contemporary interiors with local art and custom furnishings, this stylish hotel appeals to the design-conscious traveler. Its location in the Annex neighborhood offers easy access to cultural attractions and trendy restaurants.
• Best for luxury: Park Hyatt Toronto. Recently renovated, this upscale hotel boasts sophisticated rooms, a rooftop cocktail bar with panoramic views, and a world-class spa. Its Yorkville location puts guests in the heart of Toronto's most fashionable neighborhood.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in The Annex to fit any budget.

Best area to stay for luxury travelers: Yorkville

• My recommendation: Canopy By Hilton Toronto Yorkville
• Location: Close to Royal Ontario Museum, University of Toronto, and high-end shopping on Bloor Street
• Pros: Upscale atmosphere, excellent shopping, fine dining, luxurious hotels, walkable area
• Cons: Expensive, can feel exclusive, busy during peak shopping hours

Yorkville is Toronto's premier luxury neighborhood. This area is a shopper's paradise, with designer stores lining Bloor Street's "Mink Mile." You'll find flagship stores of renowned fashion houses like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, along with upscale Canadian retailers like Holt Renfrew.

Key attractions in Yorkville include the Royal Ontario Museum, which showcases world cultures and natural history, and the Gardiner Museum, dedicated to ceramic art. If you're into art, you'll appreciate the many galleries in the area, including the Loch Gallery and Mira Godard Gallery.

Despite its upscale nature, Yorkville maintains a relaxed vibe, with outdoor patios and street-side cafes perfect for people-watching and soaking in the stylish energy. The neighborhood also offers some of Toronto's finest culinary experiences. Check out Alobar Yorkville for inventive cocktails and upscale comfort food. Sotto Sotto is a long-standing favorite for Italian cuisine and is often frequented by celebrities. For a luxurious afternoon tea, the Library Bar at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel is unparalleled. ONE Restaurant, led by celebrity chef Mark McEwan, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a beautiful patio.

Why I love it: Yorkville is a sophisticated oasis in the heart of Toronto.

Best hotels in this area

• Best for a boutique stay: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto at Yorkville. Luxurious rooms, impeccable service, and a prime Yorkville location define this elegant hotel. With a world-class spa, fine dining restaurants, and stunning city views, it epitomizes upscale Toronto accommodation.
• Best for a modern stay: Canopy By Hilton Toronto Yorkville. This stylish, contemporary hotel offers a fresh take on hospitality in trendy Yorkville. Featuring locally-inspired decor, complimentary bike rentals, and a rooftop bar, it caters to guests seeking a hip, urban experience.
• Best for a stay with a kitchen: Town Inn Suites Hotel. Spacious suites with full kitchens make this hotel ideal for longer visits. Located near Yonge Street, it offers comfortable accommodations, an indoor pool, and easy access to Toronto's attractions and public transportation.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Yorkville to fit any budget.

Where to stay in Toronto for culture and history: Distillery District

• My recommendation: he Novotel Toronto Centre
• Location: Close to downtown Toronto, east of the city center
• Pros: Rich industrial heritage and Victorian architecture. Pedestrian-only area with unique shops and galleries. Vibrant arts scene and frequent cultural events.
• Cons: Can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Limited accommodation options within the district itself.

While in Toronto, you’ll want to check out the Distillery District, a National Historic Site with North America's best-preserved collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture. Once a whiskey distillery complex, it’s now buzzing with art galleries, boutiques, and performance spaces.

Some must-see spots include the Gooderham & Worts distillery buildings, public art installations, and the Young Centre for the Performing Arts. The neighborhood has this charming, old-world vibe with cobblestone streets and beautifully restored red-brick buildings. Plus, the car-free setup gives it a relaxed, European-like feel that’s perfect for exploring on foot.

There’s plenty to do here. Don't miss Arta Gallery, which showcases contemporary Canadian and international art. If you’re into live jazz, check out The Dominion on Queen, a historic spot dating back to 1889.

During winter, the annual Toronto Light Festival transforms the district into an open-air gallery of light art installations – it’s a magical experience. And for a sweet treat, SOMA Chocolate maker offers amazing artisanal chocolates and gelato.

Why I love it: The Distillery District is the best area to stay in Toronto if you want to discover local history and contemporary culture.

Best hotels in the Distillery District

• Best for a boutique stay: Sonder The Slate offers a unique, design-forward experience in the heart of the Distillery District. With stylish, apartment-style rooms and modern amenities, it provides a home-away-from-home feel for travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized stay.
• Best for comfort: The Novotel Toronto Centre combines comfort with convenience, situated just steps from the Distillery District. It features contemporary rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. 
• Best for a historical building: One King West Hotel and Residence occupies a historic building, blending old-world charm with modern luxury. Its suite-style accommodations offer stunning city views and full kitchens. The hotel's proximity to the Distillery District and financial core makes it ideal for extended stays.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in the Distillery District to fit any budget.