Toronto, a city known for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and warm Canadian hospitality, has an equally rich variety of hotels. Whether you’re looking for luxury or a homey, budget-friendly stay, Toronto’s hotel scene has something for everyone. During my trip, I had the pleasure of staying at a hotel that truly enhanced my experience of the city. Here, I’ll share my detailed review of my stay, along with other top-rated hotels that I’d recommend for anyone visiting Toronto.
The Hotel I Stayed At: The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto
Location: 181 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3G7, Canada
How to Book: Available on major booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, and directly through the Ritz-Carlton website
How to Get There: Accessible by car, public transit, or a short walk from Union Station
Rating: 9.5/10
The Ritz-Carlton, located right in the heart of downtown Toronto, offers everything a traveler could dream of in terms of luxury, convenience, and a flawless city view. I found booking straightforward, as the hotel is available on all major booking platforms, and the hotel’s own website offers a range of room types, with seasonal packages and early-booking discounts. I chose to book through Booking.com, where I took advantage of a flash deal that made this luxury experience more affordable.
Getting to the Ritz-Carlton from Toronto Pearson Airport was seamless. I opted for a taxi, but Union Station is just a ten-minute walk from the hotel, so it’s also very accessible by the UP Express train from the airport. The convenience of the location can’t be overstated. From here, I could reach iconic Toronto spots like the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and the Royal Ontario Museum in minutes. The Ritz-Carlton is a wonderful base for both leisure and business travelers who want to be in the center of it all.
As soon as I entered the hotel, I felt an immediate sense of calm and luxury. The lobby exudes sophistication, with modern art installations, rich wood finishes, and warm lighting that sets a relaxing tone. Check-in was smooth and personalized; the staff were professional yet friendly, offering tips on local dining and events. The front desk team even provided a map and marked their favorite spots for coffee and brunch nearby, which gave my stay a personalized touch.
Room and Amenities:
The room was pure elegance with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the city. It was a joy to wake up to the Toronto skyline each morning. The bed, topped with soft, luxurious linens, made it hard to leave the room, and the bathroom was a masterpiece in itself, equipped with a rain shower, large soaking tub, and plush bathrobes. Every detail in the room felt meticulously designed, from the mood lighting to the touch-screen control panel by the bed. There was a Nespresso machine in the room, which was a perfect start to each day.
The hotel amenities were equally impressive. The spa, known for its serene ambiance and top-notch treatments, was one of the highlights of my stay. I tried the signature massage, and it was easily one of the best spa experiences I’ve ever had. The Ritz also has an indoor pool with a heated whirlpool and a small but well-equipped fitness center. The lounge area by the pool is peaceful and ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Dining Experience:
During my stay, I dined at TOCA, the Ritz-Carlton’s Italian-inspired restaurant. The breakfast buffet was delightful, with an array of options from classic eggs and bacon to more adventurous dishes like ricotta pancakes with fresh berries. For dinner, the risotto and truffle dishes were exceptional, paired perfectly with the recommended wine from their sommelier.
Overall Rating and Experience:
The Ritz-Carlton is easily a 9.5/10. The ambiance, the service, and the luxurious experience are well worth the splurge. While it’s on the pricier side, I felt the experience was unforgettable, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking to indulge in a luxurious stay in Toronto.
Other Highly Recommended Hotels in Toronto
While I couldn’t stay at every hotel in the city, I did a bit of research to find other top-rated options that offer unique experiences, catering to various tastes and budgets.
1. Fairmont Royal York
Location: 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J 1E3, Canada
Style: Classic Luxury with Historic Charm
The Fairmont Royal York is a beloved Toronto landmark. Opened in 1929, it’s one of Canada’s grand hotels and combines classic elegance with modern amenities. The hotel is directly across from Union Station, making it perfect for travelers arriving by train or looking for easy access to public transit.
Inside, guests are greeted with stunning chandeliers, marble floors, and grand staircases that exude old-world charm. The rooms, recently renovated, blend historic decor with contemporary comforts, making it ideal for guests who enjoy a mix of tradition and modernity. Notable amenities include a rooftop garden, a pool, and several on-site restaurants, including the Reign, known for its refined menu focusing on Canadian cuisine. Many guests find the Fairmont Royal York ideal for a luxurious yet slightly less expensive experience compared to other luxury hotels.
2. Bisha Hotel Toronto
Location: 80 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 2G3, Canada
Style: Modern Boutique with Artistic Flair
Located in the bustling Entertainment District, the Bisha Hotel Toronto is a trendy boutique hotel that attracts a young and vibrant crowd. Known for its art-inspired interiors, the hotel boasts a chic atmosphere, with unique artwork throughout the rooms and common areas.
Each room has a distinct design, with a mix of contemporary furniture, dark colors, and custom art pieces, making it an Instagram-worthy stay. The rooftop patio with a pool offers panoramic views of the Toronto skyline and is one of the hotel’s standout features. KŌST, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, serves delightful Californian-inspired cuisine with fresh ingredients and a laid-back vibe. Bisha is ideal for guests seeking a modern, artsy environment with easy access to nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
3. Shangri-La Toronto
Location: 188 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 0A3, Canada
Style: Asian-Inspired Luxury
For those looking for an oasis of tranquility in the city, the Shangri-La is a fantastic choice. With a subtle Asian-inspired design, the hotel provides a calming and sophisticated ambiance, perfect for both relaxation and business stays. The location, close to the Financial District and a short walk from the Entertainment District, is convenient for business travelers and leisure seekers alike.
Shangri-La’s rooms are spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light. Amenities include a full-service spa, a well-equipped gym, and an indoor pool. Their in-house restaurant, Bosk, serves a blend of Canadian and Asian cuisine with seasonal ingredients. The service here is known to be attentive and accommodating, making it a favorite for guests seeking personalized luxury.
4. The Drake Hotel
Location: 1150 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1J3, Canada
Style: Eclectic Boutique
The Drake Hotel is a unique boutique hotel in the artsy West Queen West neighborhood. Known for its eclectic decor and focus on art, the hotel is a great choice for creative souls and anyone looking for a vibrant, local experience. The rooms have a retro-chic aesthetic, blending vintage and contemporary design elements, and each room has unique artwork curated by local artists.
What sets The Drake apart is its focus on culture and community. The hotel regularly hosts live music, art exhibits, and cultural events. Their rooftop bar, Sky Yard, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering cocktails and a laid-back vibe. The Drake’s more affordable rates and artistic energy make it an ideal choice for young travelers and anyone looking for a unique experience.
5. The Anndore House
Location: 15 Charles St E, Toronto, ON M4Y 1S1, Canada
Style: Hip, Vintage-Modern
A hidden gem in Toronto, The Anndore House combines a vintage-modern aesthetic with a homely feel, making it a stylish yet comfortable option for travelers. Located near the Yonge and Bloor intersection, this boutique hotel is within walking distance of popular shopping areas, dining options, and public transit.
The rooms have a cozy vibe, with custom-made furniture, exposed concrete walls, and vinyl record players, adding a nostalgic touch. Constantine, the hotel’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, has become a local favorite, known for its vibrant flavors and stylish decor. With competitive prices, a hip design, and thoughtful amenities, The Anndore House is ideal for anyone seeking a stylish, affordable stay.
Toronto’s hotel offerings are as diverse as the city itself. Each of these hotels offers something unique, whether it’s the luxurious ambiance of the Ritz-Carlton, the cultural vibrancy of The Drake, or the historic charm of the Fairmont Royal York.
