Hotels in Little Italy

Art, Aroma, and Authenticity: Discover the Heartbeat of Little Italy

Nestled in the heart of downtown Toronto, Little Italy is a vibrant cultural enclave brimming with Italian charm and culinary delights. Stroll down College Street, where colorful cafes, artisanal gelaterias, and bustling markets beckon. Discover art and history at local museums, or savor authentic pasta dishes in cozy trattorias. The lively atmosphere comes alive during festivals, celebrating the neighborhood's rich heritage. With its picturesque streets and welcoming vibe, Little Italy offers a delightful escape for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone looking to enjoy the essence of Toronto’s Italian community. Experience the warmth and flavor of this iconic destination! For the best hotel rates in Little Italy, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Little Italy

In Toronto, the Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena are fantastic for sports and entertainment, hosting major events. The Distillery Historic District offers charming cobblestone streets, art galleries, and boutique shops, perfect for leisurely exploration. Hotel accommodations around these attractions range from upscale options to cozy boutique stays, with varying room rates to suit different budgets. For first-time visitors, the Distillery Historic District provides a unique, immersive experience showcasing Toronto's history and culture. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Little Italy:

1. Near Rogers CentreOpens in a new window: This area is ideal for sports enthusiasts and travelers seeking entertainment, as it is located close to major attractions like the Rogers Centre. Visitors can enjoy a variety of sports and recreational activities, making it perfect for adventure seekers. For accommodation, consider Pelicanstay at Rogers CentreOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that offers dining options, fitness facilities, and entertainment amenities. Another option is Toronto Marriott City Centre HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel with beach access, business amenities, and adventure sports nearby. Lastly, Grand Royal Condos - CN TowerOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, provides a restaurant, health club, and is situated near the vibrant Entertainment District.
2. Near Scotiabank ArenaOpens in a new window: This locale is great for those traveling for business or leisure, offering a variety of services and amenities to cater to different traveler needs. Holiday Inn Express Whitby, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel focused on business travelers, featuring accessible business amenities. Residence Inn by Marriott WhitbyOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, is another good choice, allowing pets and providing business facilities. Lastly, The Olde Angel InnOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star inn, is ideal for couples seeking romance and adventure, with nearby activities like hiking and romantic packages.
3. Near The Distillery Historic DistrictOpens in a new window: Known for its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings, this area is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore unique shops and enjoy local dining. Glenay's BeautyOpens in a new window, a guesthouse, offers complimentary breakfast and fitness facilities nearby. Historic Lyons HouseOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star bed and breakfast, also provides free breakfast and entertainment options like billiards. Lastly, Serendipity Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window is another 3.5-star bed and breakfast offering golf experiences, making it a great option for golf lovers.

Things to do in Little Italy for first time

Three days in Little Italy offer travelers a delightful blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Expect to stroll through charming streets, unwind by scenic waterfronts, and enjoy activities like yoga, sightseeing, and live music. It's an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and vibrant experiences. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Little Italy:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Toronto with a visit to the iconic CN Tower, where you can take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Afterward, stroll over to the Canada Permanent Building, a historical site that showcases the architectural beauty of the early 20th century. Finally, make your way to the Campbell House Museum, where you can delve into the history of Toronto while exploring this charming Georgian-style home and its beautiful gardens.
• Day 2: Your day kicks off at Casa Loma, a stunning castle that transports you back in time with its elaborate architecture and lush gardens. Next, head to ISKCON Toronto, where you can experience the tranquility of this beautiful temple and learn about its fascinating culture. Wrap up your day at the Royal Ontario Museum, where you can explore diverse exhibits ranging from natural history to world cultures, making this a perfect spot for art and history lovers alike.
• Day 3: Start your exploration at The Distillery Historic District, a vibrant area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and eateries housed in beautifully restored Victorian buildings. Next, take a leisurely stroll down Queen Street West, known for its eclectic shops and trendy cafés, perfect for a little shopping and refreshments. End your day at the Hockey Hall of Fame, where you can dive into Canada’s beloved sport with interactive exhibits and memorabilia that celebrate hockey legends.

5 tips to find a great Little Italy hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for a budget-friendly getaway, consider visiting Little Italy in January, February, or December, when hotel prices are at their lowest. To get the most out of your trip and fully explore the area's highlights, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. During your visit, you can enjoy great value for money while discovering local attractions such as charming museums and authentic dining experiences.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Little Italy, Hotels.com offers a great way to snag special offers on accommodations. To explore these options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find competitive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Plus, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you make the most of your budget and enjoy your stay in Little Italy.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates might mean you could save on hotel expenses in Little Italy.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the accessibility of the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Little Italy. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Little Italy

Here are some famous dishes in Little Italy, Toronto, Ontario, Canada:

• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish originating from Quebec, poutine features crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. It’s a perfect late-night snack or comfort food, often enjoyed in casual settings where friends gather. In Little Italy, you can find unique variations that incorporate local ingredients, such as spicy sausage or roasted mushrooms, enhancing its already rich flavors.
• Butter Tarts: These delightful pastries are a Canadian classic, made with a flaky crust filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. In Little Italy, you can sample various renditions, including those with raisins or nuts, offering a sweet glimpse into the region’s baking traditions. Enjoying a butter tart with coffee at a local café captures the essence of casual Canadian dining.
• Peameal Bacon: Also known as Canadian bacon, this specialty features lean, cured pork loin rolled in cornmeal. Often served on a bun with mustard, it’s a breakfast staple that reflects the region’s meat-curing heritage and is perfect for a hearty brunch experience in Little Italy.

Best time to go to Little Italy

Little Italy experiences its lowest average temperatures in January and February, at 25.2°F (-3.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Little Italy are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, February, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.