Canada is an incredibly diverse country when it comes to accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel, a mid-range boutique hotel, or a luxurious retreat, you’ll find something that suits your needs. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to stay in major cities and tourist destinations, offering a wide range of choices to fit every travel style and budget.
Where to Stay in Canada: Top Cities and Spots
Toronto
Toronto is one of the largest and most popular cities in Canada, offering a range of accommodations from hostels to five-star hotels. If you’re on a budget, consider staying in one of the downtown hostels like HI Toronto or The Planet Traveler. Both offer clean shared dorms and private rooms at affordable prices.
For a more comfortable mid-range option, boutique options like The Anndore House or Hotel Ocho are great choices. These are usually located centrally, offering modern rooms with local flavor. If you prefer luxury, The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons Hotel Toronto are among the top-tier options, both offering stunning views, dining, and impeccable service. They’re pricier, but worth it if you’re looking to splurge.
Vancouver
Vancouver is known for its natural beauty, and the accommodation options here reflect that. Budget travelers should check out the HI Vancouver Downtown or Samesun Vancouver Hostels. These are centrally located, giving you easy access to public transportation and the city’s major attractions.
If you’re looking for something unique and comfortable but not too expensive, try the Times Square Suites Hotel. These offer apartment-style accommodations that are great for longer stays or travelers who prefer more space. For luxury, you can’t go wrong with the Fairmont Pacific Rim or the Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Both are situated in ideal locations with luxury amenities and amazing views of the city or the waterfront.
Montreal
Montreal offers something for everyone, from budget to high-end accommodations. If you’re backpacking or looking for the cheapest option possible, check out the M Montreal or Auberge Bishop. Both hostels are highly regarded among budget travelers.
For a more intimate boutique hotel experience, consider Hotel William Gray or Le Petit Hôtel. Both offer cozy but stylish rooms in the heart of Montreal’s Old Port area, giving you easy access to great restaurants and bars. For a full luxury experience, the Four Seasons Hotel Montreal or Ritz-Carlton Montreal will elevate your stay with high-end amenities, personalized service, and stunning views.
Quebec City
Quebec City is known for its charming cobblestone streets and steep European-style roofs. If you’re traveling on a budget, check out Auberge Internationale de Québec. This hostel is not only affordable but also centrally located in the Old Town, so you’ll be close to all the action.
If you want something more unique but still affordable, try Hôtel Le Manoir d’Auteuil. It’s a boutique hotel offering cozy, historical rooms that won’t break the bank. For something upscale, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is the iconic choice in town. Its castle-like setting offers luxury service with breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
Banff
Banff is all about nature, and staying close to that natural beauty is part of the appeal. Budget travelers should consider staying at the Samesun Banff or HI Banff Alpine Centre. Both offer hostel-style accommodations but with incredible views and easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities.
If you’re searching for something in the mid-range, Banff Aspen Lodge is a solid pick. It offers affordable comfort right in the heart of town. For a luxurious mountain getaway, nothing beats the Fairmont Banff Springs. It’s a historical hotel known for its castle-like architecture and its position nestled right in the mountains.
Whistler
Whistler is a world-class ski destination, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune to stay here. Whistler Lodge Hostel is great if you’re traveling on a budget. It’s a little further from town, but you can easily catch a bus or bike your way into the center.
For something more upscale but still mid-range in price, try the Crystal Lodge & Suites. It’s located in the heart of Whistler Village, giving you easy access to shops, restaurants, and the ski lifts. If you’re looking for luxury, look no further than the Four Seasons Resort Whistler. With its gorgeous alpine setting and top-notch service, you’re in for a treat.
Unique Accommodation Options Across Canada
Staying in National Parks
If you’re an outdoorsy traveler, Canada’s national parks offer some of the best cabin and camping experiences. In Jasper National Park, try staying in the Jasper Park Lodge. It’s a bit of a splurge but offers cozy cabins with full amenities and incredible views.
For a more rustic experience, many of Canada’s national parks offer glamping (luxury camping options). For a unique glamping experience, check out the oTENTik tents in places like Fundy National Park or Thousand Islands National Park. They give you a mix of the comfort of a cabin but keep you right in the heart of nature.
Ice Hotels
For a bucket-list-worthy stay, try the Hôtel de Glace in Quebec. This is the only ice hotel in North America, and it’s rebuilt every winter with unique designs. While it’s not a cheap option, it’s an unforgettable experience. You sleep on beds made of ice (don’t worry, there are plenty of warm layers!), and the hotel itself is a marvelous construction of art, light, and ice sculptures.
Train Hotels
Another unique option is staying on a train. VIA Rail Canada has long-distance train routes like the Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver, where you can book sleeper cabins. These offer cozy, classic train carriages, and while not super luxurious, they offer a unique way to see Canada’s gorgeous landscapes while sleeping comfortably onboard.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Canada
Use Aggregators but Book Directly When Possible
While it’s a good idea to search for options using booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Agoda, you’ll often find the best deals by going directly to the hotel’s website. Many hotels offer discounts or perks when you book direct, such as free breakfast, free parking, or room upgrades.
Stay Near Public Transportation
Canada is a big country, and its cities can be sprawling. To save time and money, try to book accommodations that are close to public transportation like metro stations or bus stops. This makes it much easier to get around without relying on expensive taxis or ride-shares.
Be Aware of the Seasons
Canada experiences extreme weather, especially in winter. Keep in mind that rates can skyrocket during peak seasons. In summer, rates in places like Banff, Toronto, or Vancouver can be high due to demand. Booking early is essential, especially for popular destinations during peak seasons like summer or ski season in Whistler and Banff.
Consider Travel Insurance
Canada is known for its hospitality, but it’s always a good idea to protect your bookings with travel insurance. This is especially important in the winter when snowstorms can disrupt flights and travel plans.
Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
If you often stay in hotels, consider signing up for loyalty programs like Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, or even smaller boutique hotels that offer them. You can save on future stays and get perks such as early check-in, late check-out, or free room upgrades.
Check Reviews
To avoid unfortunate surprises, always check reviews before booking. Websites like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews provide plenty of honest guest feedback that can save you from a bad experience. Hotels listed as “4-star” can sometimes have misleading ratings, so it’s best to double-check with recent comments and ratings.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers a wide variety of accommodation options that will suit any type of traveler. Whether you’re staying in a hostel downtown, in a boutique hotel in a quaint neighborhood, or in a luxurious hotel overlooking the mountains, there’s something for everyone. Booking early and reading reviews will always help you find the best options for your stay in this beautiful and diverse country.
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