Toronto, one of Canada’s largest and most vibrant cities, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Known for its multicultural atmosphere, incredible attractions, and world-class dining, it’s no wonder that Toronto is a bucket-list city for many travelers. However, one of the most common concerns for visitors is the cost of accommodation. Hotels in Toronto, particularly in the downtown area, can be expensive, but there are plenty of affordable options if you know where to look.

In this article, I’ll take you through my personal experience staying at an affordable hotel in Toronto, and I’ll also introduce a few other budget-friendly options that will allow you to experience the city without breaking the bank.

My Stay at The Alexandra Hotel

During my trip to Toronto, I stayed at The Alexandra Hotel, a budget-friendly option located near downtown, specifically at 77 Ryerson Avenue. I chose this hotel based on its great reviews and affordable pricing for its location, and I was pleasantly surprised by the overall experience.

Location and How to Book

The Alexandra Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Toronto, just a short walk from popular neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Chinatown. It’s also relatively close to the University of Toronto and the Art Gallery of Ontario, which made it a great base for exploring the city’s cultural offerings. The hotel is well-connected to public transportation, with streetcars and subway stations nearby, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city.

Booking the room was straightforward. I made my reservation through Booking.com, where I found a special discount for booking in advance. The price was very reasonable for the location, especially when compared to other hotels in the area. I highly recommend checking booking platforms like Booking.com or Hotels.com for deals and reviews before securing your reservation.

How to Get There

Getting to The Alexandra Hotel from Toronto Pearson International Airport is quite easy. I took a taxi, which cost me around CAD 50-60 and took approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take public transport from the airport: the UP Express train connects Pearson Airport to Union Station in downtown Toronto, and from there, it’s just a short subway ride or bus to the hotel. The location is also quite accessible by car, with street parking available nearby.

Hotel Environment and Facilities

Upon arriving at the hotel, I was immediately impressed by the calm and welcoming atmosphere. The building is older, but it’s been well-maintained, and the reception area was clean and efficient. The staff was friendly and provided me with all the information I needed to settle in comfortably.

The hotel offers a variety of room types, but I stayed in a standard double room with a queen-sized bed. The room was compact but cozy, with enough space for my luggage and a small work desk. It had a simple, no-frills design but was clean and functional. One thing I particularly appreciated was the kitchenette in my room, which included a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee maker. This allowed me to prepare small meals, which saved me a lot of money since eating out in Toronto can be expensive. The Wi-Fi was reliable, which is essential for keeping in touch with family and friends or planning my daily activities.

While there was no full-service restaurant in the hotel, they did provide complimentary tea and coffee in the lobby, and there were plenty of cafés and restaurants just a short walk away. Additionally, the hotel has a small fitness center, which was a nice touch for those looking to stay active during their trip.

My Check-in Experience and Stay

Check-in at The Alexandra Hotel was quick and efficient. The staff was friendly, and I felt welcomed as soon as I stepped through the door. The hotel didn’t offer luxury services, but the basics were covered, and I appreciated the no-nonsense approach to providing guests with what they need.

The room itself was simple, with basic amenities like a comfortable bed, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. While the room wasn’t particularly spacious, it was more than enough for my needs. It was quiet and I had a good night’s sleep throughout my stay, which is always a priority for me. The bathroom was small but clean, with a shower, toilet, and basic toiletries. One thing to note is that there wasn’t much space to store large luggage, but there were enough hangers and shelving to keep things organized.

I stayed for four nights and found that the hotel met my expectations for a budget-friendly option in downtown Toronto. The price I paid for such a central location was a steal compared to other hotels in the area.

My Rating

Overall, I would rate The Alexandra Hotel 4 out of 5 stars. It’s not a luxurious experience, but it offers great value for money, especially if you’re looking for a comfortable, clean, and convenient place to stay in Toronto. The location was fantastic, and the amenities, while basic, were more than enough for a short stay. If you’re traveling on a budget and looking for a place that’s centrally located without breaking the bank, The Alexandra Hotel is an excellent option.

Budget-Friendly Hotel Alternatives in Toronto

While I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at The Alexandra Hotel, Toronto has a wide range of other budget-friendly accommodations that offer great value for money. Here are a few more affordable hotels that I recommend:

1. The Drake Hotel

Located in the trendy Queen Street West area, The Drake Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel that caters to budget-conscious travelers without compromising on quality. The hotel is housed in a historic building but features modern design elements, and its proximity to art galleries, shops, and restaurants makes it a popular choice for those looking to experience Toronto’s vibrant culture.

Rooms at The Drake Hotel are well-designed, with artistic décor, comfortable bedding, and modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a rooftop bar with a fantastic view of the city, which is a great place to relax after a day of exploring. While not as inexpensive as other options, The Drake Hotel offers a unique experience in a prime location, and it’s still affordable compared to luxury hotels.

2. Hotel Ocho

Hotel Ocho, located on Peter Street, is another great budget option in downtown Toronto. It’s a contemporary hotel with a minimalist design, and the rooms are simple but comfortable. The hotel’s prime location means that you’ll be within walking distance of top attractions like the Entertainment District and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Rooms at Hotel Ocho are well-equipped, featuring flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and comfortable beds. The hotel’s lobby is sleek, and there’s a café on-site where you can enjoy breakfast or a light meal. If you’re traveling with a limited budget, Hotel Ocho offers great value, with prices generally lower than other downtown hotels of similar quality.

3. The Beverley Hotel

Located on Queen Street West, The Beverley Hotel is a boutique hotel that combines affordability with style. The hotel is known for its contemporary design and its central location near popular attractions like the Kensington Market, Chinatown, and the Entertainment District.

Rooms are compact but well-appointed, featuring modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers a rooftop bar, where you can enjoy drinks and take in the panoramic views of the city. If you’re looking for an affordable and chic place to stay in Toronto, The Beverley Hotel is an excellent option that won’t break the bank.

4. The Omni King Edward Hotel

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience at a budget price, The Omni King Edward Hotel might be the right choice. Located at 37 King Street East, this historic hotel is a Toronto landmark and offers luxurious accommodations at relatively affordable rates. While it’s a more upscale property, you can often find deals that make it more affordable than many other high-end hotels in the city.

The Omni King Edward Hotel offers elegant rooms with traditional décor, and it’s within walking distance of attractions like the St. Lawrence Market and the Financial District. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa, making it a great option if you’re looking for a little extra luxury without the hefty price tag.

Toronto has no shortage of budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers looking to explore the city without overspending. From my personal experience at The Alexandra Hotel, I can confidently say that it offers great value for money, with a central location, clean rooms, and basic amenities that meet the needs of budget-conscious travelers. Additionally, options like The Drake Hotel, Hotel Ocho, and The Beverley Hotel offer affordable alternatives in prime locations, each with its unique vibe and style.

No matter your budget, Toronto offers something for everyone, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the city’s incredible attractions, dining, and culture.