When I first arrived in Toronto, the skyline looked completely different. I’ve spent over two decades watching this city transform from a quiet “big town” into the glass-and-brick metropolis it is today. Having lived in Tokyo and Seoul, I know what makes a city stay memorable: it’s not just the thread count of your sheets, it’s the vibe of the street when you walk out the front door.
Choosing where to stay in the “6ix” is the most common mistake travelers make. Stay in the wrong spot, and you’ll spend your entire trip trapped in a $60 Uber or an overcrowded streetcar. Whether you’re looking for a luxury suite with a direct line of sight to the CN Tower for your portfolio, or a tucked-away gem in Leslieville where the locals actually drink their morning espresso, I’ve vetted these spots through a creator’s lens.
Forget the generic hotel descriptions you’ve seen a thousand times. Let’s find the neighborhood that actually matches your energy.
Downtown Delights: Where the City Comes Alive
I almost always base myself downtown when friends visit—usually near King or Front—because Toronto looks deceptively compact on a map, but winter winds and streetcar delays can double your travel time fast. When you stay near Union Station, you can dodge half the transit headaches entirely. Last February, during a snowstorm, I walked through the PATH from my hotel to dinner while visitors from Scarborough were stuck in rideshares for forty minutes.
This is also where I head when I’m shooting the city. Late afternoon light bouncing off the TD Towers and the geometric ceiling of the Allen Lambert Galleria at Brookfield Place creates some of my favorite downtown frames. Practically speaking, it’s the most logical base if you’re arriving by VIA Rail or coach—Union Station sits right below you, and you’re plugged into every TTC subway line, which makes crossing the core far easier than staying on the edges.
Here is the breakdown of the spots I’ve personally checked out, ranging from historic landmarks to hidden budget gems:
Fairmont Royal York
The Location: You really can’t get more central than this. It’s right on Front Street, directly across from Union Station. If you’re arriving by train or taking the UP Express from the airport, you can be checked in and relaxing within minutes of stepping off the platform.
The Facilities: It’s a bit like a city within a city. You’ve got a massive health club and pool, but the real draw is the dining—the Library Bar is a local legend for a reason. Plus, it’s connected to the PATH, so you can walk for kilometers underground if the Toronto weather isn’t cooperating.
The Vibe: This is for the traveler who loves a bit of “Old World” grandeur. It’s luxury, but it feels earned and historic.
One King West Hotel & Residence
The Location: Right at the corner of King and Yonge. It’s built inside a massive, historic 1914 bank building.
The Facilities: This is a “must” for your list because every room is a suite with a kitchenette. The coolest part? They have a bar and event space inside the original giant steel bank vault in the basement. As a photographer, the architecture here—especially the grand lobby—is a dream.
The Vibe: “Old Money” meets the future. You can choose a “Historic Suite” for deep-set windows and 1910s character, or a “Tower Suite” for dizzying, modern views of the city’s glass towers. It feels like staying inside a piece of Toronto’s history.
Planet Traveler Hostel
- The Location: Tucked away on College Street between Kensington Market and Chinatown—two neighborhoods I wander constantly for food shoots and street photography. It’s busy, noisy, and full of character, especially after dark.
- The Facilities: They’ve put a lot of work into being “green,” but the real selling point for me is the rooftop lounge. Compared with most downtown rooftops I’ve shot from, this is one of the easiest places to grab skyline photos without paying luxury-hotel prices. There’s also a shared kitchen and plenty of space to swap stories with other travelers.
- The Vibe: Social, eco-conscious, and very laid-back. I’d skip it if you’re craving quiet, but for solo travelers or backpackers who care more about experiences than plush rooms, it’s a smart pick.
The Beverley Hotel
The Location: This one is right on Queen Street West. If you’re into fashion, independent galleries, or just want to be near the Eaton Centre, the location is unbeatable. It’s small, which makes it feel like a secret compared to the massive towers nearby.
The Facilities: The rooms are minimalist and “compact,” but they make great use of the space. There’s a fantastic rooftop patio and a ground-floor bar that feels very much like a local neighborhood hangout.
The Vibe: It has that sleek, boutique energy. It’s perfect for someone who wants to stay somewhere that feels more like a curated apartment than a hotel.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto
The Location: Located in what we call the South Core, you are essentially at the foot of the CN Tower. You can walk to a Blue Jays game at the Rogers Centre or head to Ripley’s Aquarium in about five minutes.
The Facilities: Everything here feels brand new. The rooms have massive floor-to-ceiling windows—if you can, ask for a lake view or a tower view. There’s a great indoor pool and a solid restaurant called SOCO right downstairs.
The Vibe: Clean, modern, and efficient. It’s my top recommendation for families who want to be as close as possible to the big attractions without any transit hassle.
Luxury with a view
The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto
The Location: Perfectly positioned on Wellington Street West, right where the Financial District meets the Entertainment District. It’s tucked just behind the iconic Roy Thomson Hall and sits directly across from the CN Tower.
The Facilities: This is five-star luxury at its peak. It features the world-class Spa My Blend by Clarins, an indoor saltwater pool, and a dedicated Club Level that is famous for its culinary presentations. If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, their signature restaurant, TOCA, features Canada’s only hotel cheese cave.
The Vibe: Sophisticated, timeless, and grand. As a photographer, you’ll want to request a south-facing room; the floor-to-ceiling windows offer a view of the CN Tower so close it feels like you can touch the steel. It’s the top choice for travelers who want impeccable service and that classic, “Old World” luxury feel in a modern skyscraper.
Bisha Hotel Toronto
The Location: You’re on Blue Jays Way in the heart of the Entertainment District. It’s the ultimate spot if you’re here for a game at the Rogers Centre, a show at the Royal Alexandra, or just want to be surrounded by the city’s best nightlife.
The Facilities: This place is a vibe. It features an entire floor designed by Lenny Kravitz (yes, that Lenny Kravitz), so the aesthetic is “rockstar chic” with lots of velvet and gold. The crown jewel, though, is KŌST on the 44th floor—the rooftop restaurant and infinity pool. It feels like a slice of the California coast dropped onto a Toronto skyscraper.
The Vibe: Bold, edgy, and high-end. It feels less like a hotel and more like an exclusive club. If you want to feel like a celebrity for a weekend and get those perfect “poolside with the CN Tower” shots, this is the one.
1 Hotel Toronto (King West)
The Location: Located in the trendy King West district. It’s the city’s leader in “sustainable luxury.”
The Facilities: If you like plants, this is your place. The lobby looks like a high-end greenhouse, filled with reclaimed wood and greenery. They have a stunning rooftop called Harriet’s that has some of the best unobstructed views of the city skyline.
The Vibe: Eco-chic and very upscale. It’s where the “cool crowd” stays. It’s a bit pricier, but for a creator, the aesthetic is 10/10. It would fit perfectly in a “Eco-Friendly & Stylish” category.
Shangri-La Toronto
The Location: You’ll find it on University Avenue, perfectly positioned between the Financial District and the Entertainment District. It’s an ideal anchor for those who want to be steps away from the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts and high-end shopping.
The Facilities: The hotel is home to the world-renowned Miraj Hammam Spa, a stunning 20-meter indoor lap pool surrounded by private cabanas, and a fitness center. For dining and drinks, the Lobby Lounge is famous for its daily afternoon tea and live music, while the vibrant bar scene attracts a stylish local crowd.
The Vibe: It feels like a high-end sanctuary in the middle of the bustling city. As a designer or photographer, you’ll appreciate the floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the geometric beauty of Toronto’s glass towers. The atmosphere is serene yet cosmopolitan, characterized by rich wood textures, intricate art pieces, and impeccable service.
The Drake Hotel (West Queen West)
The Location: This is the heart of West Queen West. If you want to be where the artists, designers, and musicians actually hang out, this is your anchor. It’s surrounded by the city’s best independent boutiques and galleries.
The Facilities: It’s more of a cultural hub than a standard hotel. You’ve got the Sky Yard (a famous year-round rooftop patio), a world-class sushi bar, and a legendary live music venue in the basement. The rooms are individually designed by artists, featuring custom furniture and curated local art.
The Vibe: Creative, energetic, and a bit rebellious. It’s perfect for the traveler who wants to wake up inside an art gallery and end the night at a concert without ever leaving the building.
Unique Stays for a Memorable Experience
For those looking for something a little out of the ordinary, Toronto offers a range of boutique and quirky accommodations that move away from the standard hotel towers. These are the spots I recommend if you want your stay to have as much personality as the city itself.
St. Lawrence Residences & Suites
The Location: Right in the middle of the historic St. Lawrence neighborhood. It’s a walker’s paradise—you’re a five-minute stroll from the famous St. Lawrence Market and very close to the Distillery District.
The Facilities: This is a budget-friendly setup with a mix of private suites and rooms with shared bathrooms. It’s got a communal kitchen if you want to cook your market finds, but the real highlight is the rooftop lounge. It’s an unpretentious spot to watch the sunset over the downtown skyline.
The Vibe: Simple, clean, and practical. It feels more like a well-run guest house than a corporate hotel, perfect for travelers who want to be in a prime location without the prime price tag.
Gladstone House (The Gladstone Hotel)
The Location: Situated in West Queen West, which is the heart of Toronto’s art and design scene. You are surrounded by the city’s best independent galleries, record stores, and coffee shops.
The Facilities: Every single room here was designed by a different artist, so no two stays are the same. It’s got a great fitness studio and the famous Melody Bar downstairs, which is a staple of the local music and karaoke scene.
The Vibe: Artsy, vibrant, and deeply rooted in the community. It’s the kind of place where you feel the history of the building (it dates back to 1889) mixed with a very modern, creative energy.
The Distillery District Experience
The Location: The Distillery District is a pedestrian-only zone of cobblestone streets and Victorian-era industrial buildings. It is easily one of the most beautiful pockets of the city for photography and wandering.
The Facilities: While the famous Fermenting Cellar itself is a massive, stunning event space (often used for weddings and galas), the area features unique loft-style accommodations nearby. Staying here means you wake up surrounded by artisanal bakeries, sculptures, and some of the best outdoor patios in Toronto.
The Vibe: Historic industrial-chic. It’s a one-of-a-kind environment that feels completely separated from the modern glass towers of the downtown core.
Blackwell House
The Location: This is a charming Victorian B&B located in The Annex. It’s a leafy, peaceful neighborhood filled with heritage homes and is just a short walk from the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the University of Toronto.
The Facilities: As a classic B&B, it offers a more personal touch with cozy, traditionally furnished rooms. It’s a “quiet” stay, offering a backyard garden and a home-cooked feel that you won’t find in a high-rise.
The Vibe: Tranquil and nostalgic. It feels like a true escape from the “buzz” of the city, perfect if you prefer a slow morning and tree-lined streets over the concrete jungle.
Family-Friendly Options: Space & Convenience
If you are traveling with a group or kids, you know that space is the ultimate luxury. Toronto’s downtown core can feel a bit tight, but there are specific pockets where the rooms are larger and the amenities actually cater to families rather than just business travelers.
DoubleTree by Hilton Toronto Downtown
The Location: This hotel is tucked into a very convenient spot just north of the Financial District. You are within walking distance of Nathan Phillips Square (where the big “TORONTO” sign is) and the Eaton Centre, but it’s just far enough away from the loudest nightlife to get a good night’s sleep.
The Facilities: For families, the big draws here are the indoor heated pool and the fact that the rooms are notably more spacious than your average downtown hotel. They also have on-site dining options that are kid-friendly, and you can’t forget the warm chocolate chip cookie they give you at check-in—it’s a small touch, but a hit with everyone.
The Vibe: Practical, comfortable, and reliable. It feels like a safe harbor in the middle of a busy city, offering that extra bit of breathing room you need when traveling with a full crew.
Hotel X Toronto (Liberty Village / Lakefront)
The Location: Situated right on the lakefront at Exhibition Place. It’s slightly removed from the downtown noise, giving you a “resort” feel while still being a quick Tesla shuttle ride (which they provide for free within 5km!) into the core.
The Facilities: This place is a powerhouse for amenities. We’re talking a year-round rooftop pool with insane 360-degree views, a massive 90,000 sq. ft. athletic club, and even its own cinema. For families, there’s a dedicated 3,000 sq. ft. play center that is a total lifesaver.
The Vibe: Modern, bright, and spacious. Because there are no buildings blocking it, you get an unobstructed, cinematic view of the entire skyline to the east and the lake to the south. It’s “resort living” with a 10/10 view.
Comfort & Convenience: Relax and Explore
If you’re looking for a mix of comfort, convenience, and stylish surroundings, these hotels will make your stay a breeze.
The Anndore House (Yorkville / The Annex)
The Location: Tucked away just off Yonge Street near the Bloor-Yonge subway hub. It’s the perfect middle ground between the luxury of Yorkville and the historic charm of the University of Toronto area.
The Facilities: They’ve taken a 1950s apartment building and turned it into a retro-cool loft space. Every room comes with a record player and a collection of vinyl LPs you can swap out in the lobby. Their on-site restaurant, Constantine, is one of the best Mediterranean spots in the city.
The Vibe: Effortlessly cool and nostalgic. It feels like staying in a stylish friend’s industrial loft. It’s a great “insider” pick for someone who wants to be close to the subway but far from the generic hotel chains.
Sonder at The Liberty (Liberty Village)
The Location: Nestled in the heart of Liberty Village, this is one of Toronto’s most creative hubs. It’s a tech-forward, trendy neighborhood filled with brick-and-beam offices, great brunch spots like Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, and local breweries.
The Facilities: These are modern, apartment-style rentals. You get the benefit of a fully stocked kitchen and in-unit laundry, which is a lifesaver for longer stays. The building also features a fitness center and a rooftop pool that’s perfect for a summer dip.
The Vibe: It feels like having your own stylish Toronto pied-à-terre. It’s high-tech and contact-free (you use an app for check-in), making it ideal for the independent traveler who wants the comforts of home.
The Broadview Hotel
The Location: Located in the Riverside area of the East End. It’s an iconic landmark right at the corner of Queen Street East and Broadview Avenue. You’re just steps away from some of the city’s best independent bars and the beautiful Don Valley trails.
The Facilities: This boutique spot is famous for its rooftop bar with panoramic views of the skyline and the Don River. The rooms themselves are full of character—think record players with curated vinyl and locally sourced mini-bar snacks.
The Vibe: Historically rich but thoroughly modern. It has a “cool kid” energy that’s relaxed and sophisticated, perfect for those who want to experience the city like a local rather than a tourist.
The Parkdale Hostellerie (The Parkdale Chateau)
The Location: Situated in Parkdale, a neighborhood known for its grit, art, and authentic character. You’re right by Queen West West, surrounded by some of the most unique vintage shops and cafes in the city.
The Facilities: This is a boutique hostel/hotel hybrid. It offers a range of options from private studio apartments with kitchenettes to cozy shared rooms. There’s a strong focus on community here, with a shared kitchen and a vintage-styled common lounge.
The Vibe: Very laid-back and communal. It feels like staying in a large, artistic heritage home. It’s a great choice if you want a budget-friendly stay that doesn’t feel like a cookie-cutter chain.
Budget-Minded Travelers: Stretch Your Dollar
The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar
The Location: You are right on Queen Street West, one of the city’s coolest stretches. It’s a 5-minute walk to the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) and surrounded by endless cheap eats and trendy shops.
The Facilities: This is a no-frills, old-school hotel located above one of the most famous jazz clubs in the world. Rooms are basic—some have shared bathrooms to keep the price down—but they are clean and full of character. There’s a restaurant on-site (The Rextaurant) and live music every single night.
The Vibe: Authentic, edgy, and lively. It’s perfect if you want to soak up Toronto’s music history and don’t mind a bit of “soul” (and perhaps some distant saxophone) in your stay.
Chelsea Hotel Toronto
The Location: Located on Gerrard Street, just a block from Yonge-Dundas Square. You are steps away from the Eaton Centre and the Toronto Coach Terminal, making it incredibly easy to get anywhere in the city via the subway.
The Facilities: As Canada’s largest hotel, they have everything. There are two indoor pools (including one with a massive “Corkscrew” waterslide), a fitness center, and multiple dining options. It’s a massive hub that often has better rates because of its size.
The Vibe: High-energy and incredibly central. It’s the ultimate “utility” hotel—it works for families, solo travelers, and anyone who wants to be in the middle of the action without paying luxury prices.
Hotel Victoria
The Location: A historic gem on Yonge Street, right in the Financial District. You are a short walk from Union Station, the Scotiabank Arena, and the St. Lawrence Market.
The Facilities: This is one of Toronto’s oldest hotels, built in 1909, so the architecture is stunning. The rooms have been recently revamped to feel modern and cozy. There’s a great on-site spot called Mossop’s Social House for breakfast or a cocktail.
The Vibe: Boutique and dignified. It feels much more expensive than it actually is, offering a quiet, historic retreat right next to the city’s busiest transit hubs.
Beyond the Buzz: Toronto’s Hidden Gems
Koreatown: Neon Lights & Late-Night Eats
The Vibe: It’s a mix of students from U of T and locals looking for the best pork bone soup in the city. If you’re into street photography, the neon signs here are gold.
Why stay here? It’s usually much more affordable than downtown, and you’re right on Line 2 (the subway). You can be at the Royal Ontario Museum or Yorkville in about 10 minutes.
Leslieville: The East End’s “Main Street”
The Vibe: This is where you go for quiet, tree-lined streets, incredible vintage furniture shops, and some of the best independent galleries. It’s the kind of place where the barista actually remembers your order.
Why stay here? If you want to wake up, grab a world-class espresso, and wander through a park before heading into the chaos of downtown, this is your spot. The 501 Queen streetcar runs right through it 24/7.
Liberty Village: The Industrial-Chic Pocket
The Vibe: It has a very specific, high-speed energy—lots of young professionals, tech startups, and dog walkers. Since it’s almost entirely pedestrian-friendly, it’s one of the easiest places to get around on foot.
Why stay here? It’s perfect if you’re in town for a game at BMO Field or a concert at Ontario Place. Plus, you’ve got the GO Train at Exhibition Station—one stop and you’re at Union Station.
Where to Eat in Toronto: A Neighborhood Crawl
Toronto’s food scene isn’t just diverse; it’s competitive. Whether you’re after a $5 banh mi or a $200 tasting menu, you’re going to find something world-class. Since the city is so spread out, I recommend eating your way through these specific pockets:
St. Lawrence Market: The Breakfast Ritual
The Must-Eat: You have to try the Peameal Bacon Sandwich at Carousel Bakery. It’s a Toronto rite of passage. If you want something a bit more substantial, head downstairs to Uno Mustachio for their massive veal or eggplant parm sandwiches—they are legendary.
Pro Tip: Grab a Portuguese custard tart (Pastel de Nata) from Churrasco’s on your way out. They’re flaky, creamy, and perfect with a coffee.
Chinatown & Kensington Market: The Best Value
Dim Sum & Dumplings: For classic dim sum with a view, head to Sky Dragon on the top floor of Dragon City Mall. If you just want the best handmade dumplings in a cozy setting, Mother’s Dumplings is the gold standard.
Kensington Eats: Wander into the market for tacos at Seven Lives or a massive churro. It’s the kind of place where you just follow your nose.
Koreatown: Soul Food & Neon Lights
The Go-To: For a cold night, nothing beats the Pork Bone Soup (Gamjatang) at Owl of Minerva or Korean Village Restaurant. If you’re with a group, go for Korean BBQ at Daldongnae—you grill the meat right at your table.
The Vibe: It’s high-energy, especially late at night. It’s the perfect place to grab dinner before heading to a nearby karaoke bar.
Little Italy & Leslieville: The Brunch & Pasta Spots
Little Italy: This is where you go for a long, relaxed dinner. Sugo is the local favorite for red-sauce Italian-American comfort food (their mozzarella sticks are massive), while the new Osteria Alba is the spot if you want a trendy rooftop vibe.
Leslieville: If you’re staying in the East End, you’re in the brunch capital. Mildred’s Temple Kitchen is famous for its “Manhandler” pancakes, but even the smaller spots like Chula Taberna Mexicana offer an incredible vibe for a weekend afternoon.
Weather in Toronto
Look, I’ll be honest with you: Toronto weather is a bit of a mood. It’s not just “four seasons”—it’s a city that completely transforms its personality depending on the month. If you’ve driven those long stretches to Saskatoon, you know exactly how unpredictable Canadian weather can be, and Toronto is no exception.
Here is what it actually feels like to be on the ground here:
Summer: The City Breathes
From June to August, the city is electric. Yes, the humidity can get heavy (it’s that “sticky” Great Lakes heat), but this is when Toronto truly wakes up. Everyone is out in the parks, the patios are packed, and the waterfront is the place to be.
- My Tip: If you’re here in July, dress light and stay near the lake to catch the breeze. It’s the best time for those sunset skyline shots you’re looking for.
Fall: The Photographer’s Dream
September and October are arguably the best months to visit. The air gets crisp, the “nasty” humidity disappears, and the colors in places like High Park or the Don Valley are incredible.
- Don’t Miss: This is when Nuit Blanche happens—the city turns into an all-night contemporary art gallery. It’s a bit chilly, so you’ll want a solid jacket, but the energy of thousands of people wandering the streets at 3:00 AM is something you have to see.
Winter: The “Underground” Life
Winter (December to March) is no joke. It’s cold, and the wind whipping between the downtown skyscrapers can be sharp. But there’s a certain magic to it—skating at Nathan Phillips Square under the lights is a classic for a reason.
January is when Toronto humbles newcomers. Over the years, I’ve watched visitors underestimate the wind tunnels near Bay Street and retreat indoors by noon. If you’re staying downtown, prioritize hotels connected to the PATH—Fairmont Royal York and Shangri-La save you from crossing icy intersections every time you want dinner.
The Local Secret: This is when you learn to love the PATH. You can cross half the downtown core through these underground tunnels without ever feeling the snow. If you’re not a fan of the cold, stick to the hotels I mentioned in the Financial District that connect directly to it.
Spring: The Great Reawakening
Spring is short and sweet. One day you’re in a parka, and the next, everyone is wearing t-shirts because it hit 15°C. It’s a bit muddy, but seeing the cherry blossoms bloom at High Park is the signal that the city has survived another winter.
Experience the Energy: Toronto’s Must-See Festivals
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
The Vibe: Red carpets, pop-up street parties on King West, and that specific buzz of spotting a celebrity grabbing coffee in Yorkville.
Pro Tip: You don’t need a VIP pass to enjoy it. The “Festival Street” along King Street West is free to wander, and catching a “Midnight Madness” screening at the Royal Alexandra Theatre is an experience you’ll never forget.
Caribana (Toronto Caribbean Carnival)
The Vibe: An absolute explosion of color, feathers, and soca music. The Grand Parade along the Lakeshore is a high-energy celebration of Caribbean culture that brings millions of people to the city.
Winterlicious & Summerlicious
For the foodies, these are the two best times to be in Toronto. For two weeks in January (Winterlicious) and July (Summerlicious), the city’s top-tier restaurants offer three-course, prix-fixe menus at a significant discount.
- The Vibe: It’s the perfect excuse to try that high-end restaurant you’ve been eyeing without the high-end bill.
Finding Your Perfect Toronto Home
With this guide, you’re ready to choose the ideal spot for your stay. Whether you want to be in the middle of the downtown skyscrapers or tucked away in an artsy pocket like Leslieville, Toronto has a corner that will feel like home.
The city is constantly evolving, so don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path—that’s usually where the best stories (and photos) are found.
Final Pro Tip: Look Beyond the Booking
Before you hit “confirm,” always check the hotel’s direct website. Often, Toronto hotels will offer “Staycation” perks or “Local Resident” discounts that don’t show up on major travel sites. Plus, booking direct can sometimes score you a room with a better view of the skyline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What does it actually cost to stay downtown?
Toronto isn’t the cheapest city, but there’s a wide range—and I still get emails from friends shocked by the final bill after they book. Budget hostels and simple rooms often start around $180–$260 a night, while mid-range to luxury stays usually land between $250 and $450+, depending on season.
Always check the final total before comparing listings. Once you add Ontario’s sales tax and Toronto’s municipal accommodation tax, the price typically jumps around 15–20%, which can mean an extra $40–$80 per night on an average room.
- How do I get from Pearson Airport to downtown?
The UP Express is your best friend here. It’s a clean, fast train that gets you from the airport to Union Station in exactly 28 minutes. It runs every 15 minutes, and if you have a PRESTO card (or just tap your credit card), it’s under $10. It beats sitting in 401 traffic any day.
- Can I bring my dog?
Absolutely. Toronto is a very dog-friendly city. Many boutique spots like The Broadview Hotel or 1 Hotel Toronto don’t just “allow” pets—they welcome them with treats and beds. You’ll also find plenty of off-leash parks in neighborhoods like Leslieville.
- Where can I find a rooftop pool with a view?
If you want that iconic “swimming next to the CN Tower” shot, Bisha Hotel has an incredible infinity pool on the 44th floor. For a year-round option that’s partially indoor/outdoor, Hotel X is the place to go.
- Is Airbnb better than a hotel?
It depends on the vibe you want. If you want to feel like a local in Leslieville or Little Italy, an Airbnb is great for finding those quiet, residential streets. However, for short stays, downtown hotels often offer better security, more reliable amenities, and easier access to transit. Plus, with Toronto’s strict licensing laws for short-term rentals, hotels are a much safer bet to ensure your booking doesn’t get cancelled at the last minute by the city.
- What’s the best way to get around?
Walk whenever you can—downtown is very pedestrian-friendly! For everything else, use the TTC (subway and streetcars). New for 2026: You can now tap your credit card or phone, and once you hit 47 rides in a month, the rest of your trips are free.
- What should I pack for the weather?
Toronto weather loves to keep you guessing. Summers are humid (pack light!), and winters are biting (you’ll need a real parka). If you’re coming in spring or fall, layers are mandatory. You might start the day in a sweater and end it in a t-shirt.
- What time zone is Toronto in?
Toronto runs on Eastern Time (ET). If you’re planning a cross-country trip (like that drive to Saskatoon!), remember that Canada has six time zones. You’ll be gaining or losing hours as you head west!
- How do I get a SIM card?
You can grab one at the airport (look for the Chatr or Telus kiosks), but they can be pricey. If you can wait until you get downtown, hit up a carrier store like Rogers or Bell in a mall for better deals. Or, do what I do: download an eSIM (like Airalo) before you even land to get data instantly.