Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and it can be difficult to decide where to stay when you’re visiting. Every neighborhood in Toronto has unique characteristics and attractions to offer, but some areas stand out as the best places to stay. In this blog post, we will discuss the best areas to stay in Toronto and what makes them great.
Downtown
Downtown is the most popular area for tourists, and for a good reason. This area offers many things to do and see, including the Eaton Center, the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Hockey Hall of Fame. If you’re visiting Toronto for the first time, staying in the downtown area will give you a chance to see the city’s most popular attractions and landmarks.
Downtown Toronto has many options for accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular hotel options include the Fairmont Royal York, the Sheraton Center Toronto, and the Westin Harbor Castle.
Chinatown
Chinatown is another popular area to stay in Toronto, especially for those who love Asian cuisine and culture. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its street food, shops, and festivals. If you’re looking for a unique experience in Toronto, staying in Chinatown is a great option.
Some popular hotels in Chinatown include the Grange Hotel, the Super 8 by Wyndham Downtown Toronto, and the Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Chinatown.
Harbourfront
Harbourfront is a beautiful area located right on the water. If you’re looking for a picturesque place to stay in Toronto, this is it. The area is known for its marina, festivals, and parks. There are also many restaurants and shops in the area, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience the best of Toronto.
Some popular hotels in Harbourfront include the Radisson Admiral Hotel Toronto-Harbourfront, The Westin Harbour Castle, and The Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto.
Entertainment District & Financial District
The Entertainment District and Financial District are both located in downtown Toronto and are great areas to stay, especially if you’re looking for a luxury experience. The Entertainment District is home to Toronto’s theaters, concert halls, and sports venues, while the Financial District is known for its skyscrapers and corporate offices.
Some popular hotels in the Entertainment District include The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, The Shangri-La Hotel, and The Bisha Hotel Toronto. Some popular hotels in the Financial District include The Fairmont Royal York, The St. Regis Hotel, and The Sheraton Centre Toronto.
Yorkville
Yorkville is an upscale neighborhood located in downtown Toronto. This area is known for its high-end shopping, celebrity sightings, and luxury hotels. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Toronto, Yorkville is the place for you.
Some popular hotels in Yorkville include The Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, The Hazelton Hotel, and The InterContinental Toronto Yorkville.
Midtown
Midtown is another great area to stay in Toronto, especially if you’re looking for a quieter experience. This neighborhood is located just north of downtown and offers many parks, museums, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a more relaxed stay in Toronto, Midtown is a great option.
Some popular hotels in Midtown include The Roehampton Hotel, The Best Western Roehampton Hotel & Suites, and The Four Points by Sheraton Toronto Midtown.
West Queen West
West Queen West is a trendy neighborhood located west of downtown Toronto. This area is known for its galleries, shops, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a hip and trendy area to stay in Toronto, West Queen West is the place for you.
Some popular hotels in West Queen West include The Gladstone Hotel, The Drake Hotel, and The Hotel Ocho.
Conclusion
Toronto offers many great areas to stay, but the best areas are Downtown, Chinatown, Harbourfront, Entertainment District & Financial District, Yorkville, Midtown, and West Queen West. Each neighborhood in Toronto has unique characteristics that make it a great place to stay, so choose the area that fits your preferences and interests. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or a more budget-friendly stay, Toronto has something for everyone.
FAQ
Is it better to stay in downtown Toronto?
Choosing where to stay when visiting Toronto can have a significant impact on your overall travel experience. When it comes to selecting the right location, downtown Toronto is an excellent option for most travelers. There are plenty of things to do and see in downtown Toronto, making it the perfect place to stay.
One of the primary benefits of staying in downtown Toronto is that it is the city’s center and where many popular tourist attractions are located. For example, the iconic CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Ripley’s Aquarium are all found in downtown Toronto. This makes it very convenient for tourists who want to spend less time traveling between landmarks.
Aside from the big attractions, downtown Toronto is also home to some of the city’s best shopping districts, high-end restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Yonge-Dundas Square, Queen Street West, and Kensington Market are popular areas worth exploring. Plus, there are plenty of street events, art festivals, and other cultural events held in downtown Toronto.
Additionally, public transportation is convenient, offering you fast access to the rest of the city. TTC Streetcars run along Queen St and King St, providing quick, easy access to many tourist attractions and other neighborhoods outside of downtown Toronto. There are also bike rental stations and ridesharing services available for easier transportation.
While there are many reasons to stay in downtown Toronto, it can also be a pricier option compared to other areas like the suburbs. However, many budget-friendly accommodations and restaurants can be found in pockets like Chinatown or the Old Town area, offering affordable options to travelers.
Staying in downtown Toronto is an excellent choice for tourists looking for access to the city’s main attractions, cultural experiences, and lively atmosphere. While it may be more expensive than other areas, there are plenty of affordable options available. With plenty of entertainment options within a short walking distance, downtown Toronto is an ideal location for visitors to get the most out of their stay.
What are the safest areas in Toronto for tourists?
Toronto is a wonderful place for tourists to visit, but like any big city, it’s important to know the safest areas to explore. When planning a trip to Toronto, safety should always be a top priority. Fortunately, Toronto is generally considered a safe city, but there are certain neighborhoods that are particularly popular among tourists due to their low crime rates.
One of the safest areas in Toronto for tourists is West Queen West. Locals, and most tourists, agree that West Queen West is the coolest neighborhood in Toronto. Filled with unique attractions, friendly locals, and trendy restaurants, it’s also one of the safest neighborhoods. The streets are well lit and busy, attracting visitors and locals alike. Even at night, West Queen West feels safe, which is why many people recommend it to tourists.
Another safe neighborhood in Toronto for tourists is the Financial District. This bustling business district is known for its towering skyscrapers, but it’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for a safe and secure area. The Financial District is buzzing with activity during the day, but it’s relatively quiet at night, making it a peaceful place to wander and explore. The area is also well patrolled, which helps to keep crime rates low.
Yorkville is another one of the safest neighborhoods in Toronto for tourists. This chic and upscale area is known for its high-end shopping, art galleries, and fancy restaurants. It’s a little quieter than some of the other neighborhoods in Toronto, but that’s part of its charm. The streets are lined with tree-lined sidewalks, and the neighborhood is well-lit, making it feel safe and secure, even at night.
Finally, the Entertainment District is a popular area for tourists to explore, and it’s also one of the safest neighborhoods in Toronto. With its theaters, sports arenas, nightclubs, and restaurants, the Entertainment District is lively and vibrant, but it’s also well-patrolled, keeping the area safe for visitors.
Toronto is a relatively safe city, but it’s always a good idea to know the areas that are safest for tourists. West Queen West, the Financial District, Yorkville, and the Entertainment District are just a few of the neighborhoods that are recommended for visitors. By sticking to these areas, travelers can feel safe and secure while exploring all that Toronto has to offer.
Is Toronto the 2nd safest city in the world?
Toronto is often touted as one of the safest cities not only in Canada but also in the world. According to a report released by the prestigious Economist Intelligence Unit in 2021, which looked at 60 cities across the globe, Toronto ranked second in the list, behind only Tokyo, for the title of the world’s safest city. This ranking was the sum of scores in various categories including digital security, health security, infrastructure, and personal safety. The report credited Toronto with a strong response to the Covid-19 pandemic as one reason for its high ranking.
The safety of a city can be determined by different factors. For instance, statistics such as crime rate, murder rate, theft, and violent crime can be used to assess the safety of a city. Using such metrics, Toronto has consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in North America. For instance, according to statistics from the Toronto Police Service, the city’s overall crime rate has been on a steady decline since 2014. There were 5,719 violent crimes reported in Toronto in 2020, which represents a 2% decrease from the previous year. Similarly, the city recorded 48 homicides in 2020, the lowest recorded in 16 years.
Toronto’s reputation as a safe city can also be attributed to its diverse and cosmopolitan nature. The city is home to a population of diverse cultures and backgrounds, many of whom have made Toronto their home. This social mixture helps to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and respected.
Another factor that contributes to Toronto’s safety is the city’s public transportation system. The city has a well-developed network of buses, light rail, and subway trains that not only provide a reliable and efficient way of getting around the city but also offer a safe and secure way for travelers to move around.
Toronto is undoubtedly one of the safest cities, not only in Canada but also in the world. The city’s safety reputation comes from various factors, including its low crime rates, diverse and cosmopolitan nature, and well-connected transportation network. While no city is entirely free of crime, Toronto provides a safe and peaceful environment for its residents and visitors.
Is Little Portugal in Toronto safe?
Little Portugal is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Toronto, known for its rich culture, architecture, and community. When it comes to safety, Little Portugal is considered a safe area to live in, with a low crime rate. However, as with any urban environment, it is always wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially while walking alone at night. It is advisable to take precautions such as avoiding deserted areas, walking in well-lit streets, and keeping personal valuables out of sight.
Moreover, parking can be quite challenging in Little Portugal, particularly on the main streets due to narrow roads and limited space. Visitors may find themselves having to park a significant distance away from their accommodation, which could mean walking through less busy streets. It is essential to park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving valuable belongings in the car for safety reasons.
Little Portugal is a safe and friendly community that has much to offer visitors and residents alike. Still, it is always sensible to take the necessary safety precautions to ensure a pleasant and secure experience in the neighborhood.