Toronto has a way of surprising me. On some days, it feels like a cosmopolitan capital buzzing with business, art, and nightlife. On others, it feels like a city that invites me to slow down, indulge, and savor its finer side. Nowhere is this contrast more apparent than in its luxury hotels. These properties aren’t just places to sleep; they’re destinations in themselves.
I’ve had the joy of experiencing some of Toronto’s finest five-star stays, and each one left me with a distinct memory — a moment where I felt the city open up in ways only true luxury can. It wasn’t just about marble lobbies and champagne brunches. It was about how these hotels made me feel: valued, seen, and wrapped in comfort.
Over the course of my stays, I explored five of Toronto’s most iconic five-star hotels: The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, Fairmont Royal York, Shangri-La Toronto, Bisha Hotel Toronto, and The St. Regis Toronto. Each offered something unique — whether it was breathtaking views, culinary brilliance, or a spa that made the outside world disappear.
Let me take you through each of these sanctuaries of luxury, one by one.
The Ritz-Carlton Toronto: Elegance at the Edge of the Entertainment District
Location: 181 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON
Walking into the Ritz-Carlton Toronto feels like stepping into another world. Nestled between the Entertainment District and the Financial District, its location couldn’t be more perfect. I was just a short walk from the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Rogers Centre — yet once inside, I was cocooned in silence and sophistication.
The lobby, bathed in warm light, set the tone. Staff greeted me not just with professionalism but with genuine warmth — a small detail, but one that lingered. My room overlooked Lake Ontario, the water sparkling like liquid silver at sunrise. The design balanced modern minimalism with comfort: plush bedding, spacious marble bathrooms, and thoughtful touches like Nespresso machines and locally sourced bath products.
Highlights & Features:
- Spa My Blend by Clarins: One of my favorite spa experiences in Toronto. The treatments felt tailor-made, and the serene atmosphere made hours slip away.
- TOCA Restaurant: The hotel’s Italian-inspired restaurant, with its unique “cheese cave,” was a revelation for my taste buds.
- Club Level: If you can splurge, the Club Lounge is worth it. Private check-in, gourmet snacks throughout the day, and panoramic views of the skyline.
Guest Impressions: Many online reviewers echo my feelings: guests consistently highlight the personalized service and attention to detail. “Unforgettable” and “exceptional” are words I saw repeatedly.
Costs & Booking:
- Standard rooms often start around CAD \$700–\$800 per night, with suites reaching into the thousands.
- I usually check Booking.com, Expedia.ca, and Marriott’s official site. Sometimes, booking directly through the Ritz-Carlton offers perks like free breakfast or spa credits.
Insider Tip: Travel off-peak (late January or February) and look for packages that include spa treatments or dining credits. Luxury can become surprisingly attainable if you plan well.
Personal Note: My favorite memory here? Sitting by the window late at night, a glass of wine in hand, watching the city lights flicker below. It felt like Toronto itself was whispering its secrets to me.
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto: Yorkville’s Crown Jewel
Location: 60 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, ON
If the Ritz-Carlton feels like classic urban sophistication, the Four Seasons Toronto is the epitome of understated luxury. Located in Yorkville, Toronto’s upscale neighborhood of designer boutiques, galleries, and leafy streets, the hotel embodies elegance without ever feeling ostentatious.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how calm everything felt. The lobby was modern and airy, with clean lines and soothing tones. My room was a sanctuary: floor-to-ceiling windows that flooded the space with light, a deep soaking tub that became my evening ritual, and a bed that felt like it had been designed just for me.
Highlights & Features:
- Spa at Four Seasons: Spanning over 30,000 square feet, this spa is North America’s largest luxury hotel spa. The rooftop pool with its panoramic view of Toronto made me forget I was in the middle of a bustling city.
- Café Boulud: Chef Daniel Boulud’s French-inspired cuisine was a culinary journey in itself. Breakfast here, with fresh pastries and rich coffee, was a highlight of my stay.
- Yorkville Location: Stepping out of the hotel meant immediate access to luxury shopping (think Prada, Gucci, Chanel) and cozy cafes tucked into quiet corners.
Guest Impressions: Reviewers often highlight the “flawless service” and the spa experience. Many say this is Toronto’s ultimate luxury stay — and I found myself agreeing.
Costs & Booking:
- Rooms typically range from CAD \$750–\$900 per night, with suites far higher.
- Best rates are often on the Four Seasons official site, but I’ve also found competitive deals on Expedia.ca and American Express Travel.
Insider Tip: Use loyalty perks from credit cards like Amex Platinum to get added benefits: room upgrades, late checkout, or complimentary breakfasts.
Personal Note: I still remember floating in the rooftop pool as snowflakes drifted down around me in winter. It felt surreal — warm water, cold air, and a skyline dusted with white. Pure magic.
Fairmont Royal York: A Historic Icon Reimagined
Location: 100 Front Street West, Toronto, ON
Staying at the Fairmont Royal York is like stepping back into Toronto’s glamorous past — without sacrificing any modern comfort. Built in 1929, the hotel was once the tallest building in the British Empire. Today, it stands across from Union Station, making it one of the most convenient spots in the city.
Walking into the grand lobby, I felt awe. High ceilings, chandeliers, and an undeniable air of history. But beyond its grandeur, the Royal York has evolved beautifully. My room blended classic touches (like crown moldings) with modern upgrades (like fast Wi-Fi and sleek bathrooms).
Highlights & Features:
- CLOCKWORK Champagne & Cocktail Bar: Sitting here with a perfectly balanced cocktail made me feel like I was part of a different era.
- Library Bar: Known for its famous “Birdbath Martini,” it’s a spot that oozes old-world charm.
- Indoor Pool & Health Club: A welcome retreat after exploring downtown.
Guest Impressions: Online reviews praise the location above all. Business travelers and tourists alike love the easy access to Union Station and downtown attractions. Some note that standard rooms feel smaller than newer five-star hotels, but the atmosphere more than compensates.
Costs & Booking:
- Standard rooms begin at around CAD \$500–\$600 per night.
- Best deals often appear on Fairmont’s official site or Accor Live Limitless loyalty program. I’ve also found seasonal discounts on Expedia.ca.
Insider Tip: If you’re traveling by train, the convenience of walking straight from Union Station cannot be overstated. And if you can, book a Gold Floor room for access to the private lounge.
Personal Note: I’ll never forget sipping champagne in the lobby during the holiday season, the Christmas tree glowing above me, and a pianist playing softly nearby. It was like living inside a postcard.
Shangri-La Toronto: Where Asia Meets Canada
Location: 188 University Avenue, Toronto, ON
The Shangri-La Toronto feels like a fusion of East and West. From the moment I stepped into the lobby, greeted by a towering glass sculpture and the soothing sound of live music, I felt transported. This wasn’t just a hotel; it was an atmosphere.
My room was spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out over University Avenue. The bathroom had heated floors — a small touch, but one I appreciated deeply on a chilly morning.
Highlights & Features:
- Lobby Lounge: With daily live music and an afternoon tea service, it’s one of my favorite spots in the city to simply relax.
- MIRAJ Hammam Spa by Caudalie: A Moroccan-inspired hammam experience that left me glowing.
- Dining: The hotel’s culinary offerings lean toward contemporary Asian fusion, reflecting the Shangri-La brand’s heritage.
Guest Impressions: Many reviewers praise the atmosphere, noting it feels less “corporate” than some other luxury properties. Guests consistently rave about the spa and service.
Costs & Booking:
- Rooms usually start around CAD \$700 per night.
- Deals are sometimes found on Shangri-La’s official site and Booking.com.
Insider Tip: Afternoon tea at the Lobby Lounge books up quickly. Reserve in advance if this experience is on your list.
Personal Note: One evening, I sat in the lounge, sipping jasmine tea while a cellist played nearby. Outside, the city bustled, but inside, I felt cocooned in serenity. That contrast is what made Shangri-La unforgettable for me.
Bisha Hotel Toronto: Modern Glamour with Artistic Flair
Location: 80 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON
Of all the luxury hotels I’ve visited in Toronto, the Bisha Hotel was perhaps the boldest. Located in the heart of the Entertainment District, it blends glamour, art, and nightlife into one unforgettable package.
My room had floor-to-ceiling windows that gave me a front-row seat to the city lights. The décor was edgy and artistic — think velvet textures, dark tones, and bold art pieces curated by musician Lenny Kravitz’s design firm. It felt like staying in a chic art gallery.
Highlights & Features:
- Rooftop Pool: With sweeping views of the CN Tower, this was one of the most Instagram-worthy moments of my Toronto travels.
- KOST Restaurant: Perched on the 44th floor, it served up fresh Californian-inspired cuisine alongside breathtaking views.
- Entertainment Location: Steps from theatres, sports venues, and nightlife.
Guest Impressions: Online reviews often describe Bisha as “hip,” “trendy,” and “perfect for young luxury travelers.” Some note the vibe can be energetic (read: noisy), but that’s part of its appeal.
Costs & Booking:
- Rooms generally start around CAD \$500–\$600 per night.
- Deals are often found on Expedia.ca and Booking.com.
Insider Tip: Book a corner suite if you can. The views of the CN Tower are unforgettable.
Personal Note: Floating in the rooftop pool at sunset, the CN Tower glowing nearby, I felt like I was living a scene from a movie.
The St. Regis Toronto: Sophistication Redefined
Location: 325 Bay Street, Toronto, ON
The St. Regis Toronto is the epitome of urban sophistication. Located in the Financial District, it’s sleek, stylish, and tailored to those who want refined luxury.
My suite here was expansive, with a living area, marble bathroom, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping city views. Every detail felt intentional, from the perfectly ironed sheets to the nightly turndown service with chocolates.
Highlights & Features:
- Louix Louis: The hotel’s 31st-floor restaurant and bar was breathtaking, with a grand ceiling mural and some of the best cocktails I’ve had in Toronto.
- Spa: Compact but exquisite, with personalized treatments.
- Butler Service: True to St. Regis tradition, every guest has access to butler service. Having my morning coffee delivered just the way I like it was a luxury I didn’t know I needed.
Guest Impressions: Reviews often describe it as “elegant” and “seamless.” Business travelers especially appreciate its location and service.
Costs & Booking:
- Rooms typically start at CAD \$700 per night.
- Best deals often appear on Marriott Bonvoy’s site or through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the signature champagne sabering ritual held in the evenings. It’s a St. Regis tradition worldwide, and Toronto’s version is stylish and memorable.
Personal Note: One evening, I sat at Louix Louis, sipping a perfectly mixed Old Fashioned while the city glowed beneath me. I felt a quiet kind of luxury — the kind that doesn’t shout, but whispers elegance in every detail.
Booking Luxury in Toronto: Practical Advice
Over time, I’ve learned a few tricks for booking luxury hotels in Toronto without breaking the bank:
- Use Canadian booking platforms first: Sites like Expedia.ca and Booking.com are reliable and often include perks like free cancellation.
- Check official hotel sites: Many luxury hotels offer packages that include spa credits, dining vouchers, or parking — these add value.
- Leverage loyalty programs: Marriott Bonvoy (for Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis) and Accor Live Limitless (for Fairmont) can accumulate points quickly.
- Consider shoulder seasons: January, February, and November often have lower rates.
- Credit card perks: Premium cards like Amex Platinum or Visa Infinite Privilege often unlock room upgrades, late checkouts, and complimentary breakfasts.
Toronto’s Five-Star Symphony
Each of Toronto’s five-star hotels tells a different story. The Ritz-Carlton whispered elegance and lake views. The Four Seasons wrapped me in calm, with a rooftop pool that felt like heaven. The Fairmont Royal York carried me back in time, while Shangri-La transported me across cultures. Bisha dazzled me with modern glamour, and the St. Regis impressed me with quiet sophistication.
What struck me most wasn’t just the luxury itself. It was how these hotels made me feel. In a city as diverse and dynamic as Toronto, luxury hotels become more than accommodations. They become experiences, each offering a lens through which to see the city differently.
At the end of each stay, I didn’t just check out of a hotel. I carried a memory — a glass of champagne under a glittering chandelier, a swim beneath a snow-dusted sky, a perfectly folded towel waiting in my room. And those memories, stitched together, became my own personal love letter to Toronto’s luxury side.
Because in this city, luxury isn’t just about where you stay. It’s about how it makes you feel while you’re there.
