10 Best Hotels Near Union Station Toronto for First-Time Visitors
Planning your first trip to Toronto and not sure where to stay? As a Toronto travel guide I get this question all the time and my answer is almost always the same: stay near Union Station.
I’ve lived in Toronto my whole life, and if there’s one thing I know, it’s that where you stay is a really important factor in your travel plans. Union Station sits right in the heart of downtown and it’s Toronto’s main transportation hub making it an ideal location for first-time visitors.
From here, you can take the UP Express to Pearson Airport, hop on the subway, catch a GO Train to Niagara Falls, or simply walk to Toronto’s biggest attractions. It’s one of the most convenient places to stay in Toronto.
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Short on Time?
Closest to Union Station: Fairmont Royal York – directly across the street
Best Family Option: The Sheraton Downtown – Excellent rooftop pool
Best Luxury Option: Omni King Edward – Historic Luxury
Best Budget Option: Novotel – Excellent location
Where to Stay Near Union Station
To help you plan your visit, I’ve created this list of the best hotels near Union Station based on my local knowledge and the places I personally trust and confidently recommend to anyone visiting Toronto for the first time.
1. Fairmont Royal York
⭐️ Rating: 7.2/10 ✓ Directly across from Union Station ✓ Iconic historic luxury
If you want the closest hotel to Union Station, the best hotel is the Fairmont Royal York. I honestly love this historic hotel. Every time I walk into the lobby I feel as though I’m being transported back in time. The architecture is stunning and the whole hotel screams luxury. It’s not surprising that this is where the Queen stayed each time she came to Toronto!
This old railway hotel is located directly across the street from Union Station. You can step off the UP Express or your train and be at your hotel in minutes. Not only is this one of the most convenient places to stay in Toronto, it’s also one of the most iconic.
With its grand architecture, elegant interiors, indoor pool, and that classic Fairmont level of service, it’s the kind of place we visit when we want to celebrate special – perhaps an anniversary or birthday celebration.
Why You’ll Love It:
✓ Historic luxury – One of Canada’s top Fairmont properties
✓ Prime downtown location – Steps from the Hockey Hall of Fame, St. Lawrence Market & the theatre district
✓ Directly across from Union Station & UP Express – Easiest possible airport and transit access
✓ Indoor pool & spa facilities
✓ Incredible on-site dining, including the Library Bar (perfect for unwinding after sightseeing)
☞ If you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic getaway, or simply want a refined downtown experience with unbeatable convenience, the Fairmont Royal York is the hotel I would recommend.
2. Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto
⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 ✓ 5-minute walk to Union Station ✓ Modern luxury with great views
This is the hotel we stay at when we want incredible views of Toronto. We were lucky enough to stay at this hotel when it first opened and loved the huge widows and great views of the CN Tower and Lake Ontario.
Located a 5-minute walk from Union Station and connected to the PATH system, the Delta by Marriott is one of the most convenient modern hotel options downtown.
The location is exceptional for sightseeing. You’re beside the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, and Ripley’s Aquarium. As huge Blue Jays baseball fans, this hotel was the ideal place to stay. We were also back in the comfort of our room minutes after the game ended – so thankful we were not trapped in the traffic chaos outside.
Why stay here:
✓ Spacious, contemporary rooms with skyline or lake views
✓ Connected to the PATH for indoor access toward Union Station
✓ Prime location for sports, concerts & major attractions
✓ Quick access to Union Station for airport and regional travel
✓ Upscale comfort with a relaxed, modern feel
☞ If you want great views from your room, a modern hotel, and easy access to both Union Station and the Rogers Centre, the Delta Marriott is the hotel for you!
3. Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 ✓ 5-minute walk to Union Station ✓ Stadium-view rooms overlooking the Rogers Centre field
This hotel has to have one of the most unique hotel experiences not only in Toronto, but perhaps around the word. The Toronto Marriott City is located INSIDE the Rogers Centre – home of the Toronto Blue Jays.
Imagine watching a baseball game from the comfort of your hotel room. Well, that’s exactly what we did. It was definitely a bucket-list experience, especially as huge sports fans, and it’s a memory we’ll never forget.
Located just a 5-minute walk to Union Station,the Marriott City Centre combines unbeatable convenience with a one-of-a-kind sports setting.
Why stay here:
✓ Baseball Stadium View rooms for a truly bucket list stay in the city
✓ Sportsnet Grill overlooking the field — perfect for breakfast or drinks
✓ Starbucks onsite
✓ Easy walk to Union Station, CN Tower, The Well & downtown attractions
☞ If you’re booking the Marriott, the Stadium View room is the highlight. The city-view rooms are comfortable, but the field-facing experience is what makes this stay truly unique.
4. Le Germain Hotel Maple Leaf Square
⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 ✓ Connected to Union Station & Scotiabank Arena ✓ Ultimate location for sports & concerts
If you’re visiting Toronto for a Leafs game, Raptors game, or major concert, the Le Germain Hotel is in one of the best locations near all the action. It’s directly connected to Scotiabank Arena and the PATH walkways, allowing you to walk to Union Station entirely indoors.
Although I haven’t stayed here myself, many first-time visitors highly recommend this hotel in my Toronto Travel Facebook group. They love the location – close to Union, connected to the PATH, not to mention a Longo’s grocery store within the same building.
It’s one of the few hotels where you can step off the train at Union Station and reach your hotel without even going outside — a huge advantage in winter or during busy event nights.
Beyond Union Station access, the location puts you beside the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and some of the city’s best dining and nightlife. Real Sports — Toronto’s most famous sports bar — is downstairs (reserve ahead on game nights).
Why stay here:
✓ Direct indoor access to Union Station via PATH
✓ Connected to Scotiabank Arena
✓ Tea & coffee facilities + fridge in every room
✓ 24-hour fitness centre
✓ Real Sports Bar downstairs (200+ TVs & massive beer selection)
✓ Longo’s grocery store and Starbucks in the same building
Having been in this area after a Jays or Leafs game, the area can get loud and lively after events (especially during playoffs). If you prefer a quieter stay, request a higher-floor room away from the arena-facing side.
☞ Direct indoor access to Union Station and Scotiabank Arena makes Le Germain one of the most in-demand hotels on game nights.
5. The Omni King Edward Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 9.6/10 ✓ Walkable to Union Station ✓ Historic luxury with royal charm
This is the hotel I suggest if you want luxury in downtown Toronto. The Omni King Edward is one of the most refined stays in downtown Toronto. As the city’s original luxury hotel, dating back to 1903, it delivers the old-world elegance and elevated service you expect from a true heritage property.
Located in Old Town Toronto in the financial district, it’s a 10 minute walk (or 1 stop on the subway) to Union Station. You’re also close to the Hockey Hall of Fame, St. Lawrence Market, the Eaton Centre Shopping Mall, the Distillery District, and major downtown attractions, with subway access just steps away.
We have walked through this hotel at Christmas and it is especially elegant during the holidays. It is perfect spot for a Christmas getaway, Mother’s Day treat, or any special occasion weekend.
Why stay here:
✓ Stunning historic lobby with genuine royal charm
✓ Traditional English Afternoon Tea (a signature experience)
✓ Victoria Café & Consort Bar for elevated dining and cocktails
✓ Weekend brunch reminiscent of an English aristocrat’s club
✓ Onsite Mokara Spa & fitness centre
✓ Close to Union Station and downtown highlights
☞ If you want a premier hotel in Toronto known for its high quality of service, timeless décor and a stay that feel regal, a stay at the King Edward is an exceptional choice.
6. Hilton Toronto Downtown
⭐️ Rating: 8.6/10 ✓ 10-minute walk to Union Station ✓ Rooftop indoor/outdoor pool
I have stayed at the Hilton several times and one of the biggest highlights is the indoor/outdoor rooftop pool. It’s great for families, but also a relaxing place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. During my last stay I had room with a pretty epic view of the CN Tower – it was especially mesmerizing at night!
If you want a centrally located downtown hotel with easy access to Union Station and a standout rooftop pool, the Hilton is an excellent choice.
The location is ideal for exploring on foot. You’re steps from the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Eaton Centre, and Nathan Phillips Square with the iconic Toronto Sign. It’s also connected to Toronto’s PATH system – a unique underground pedestrian walkway, stretching more than 30 kilometres beneath the downtown core
It’s about a 10-minute walk to Union Station, or just one subway stop from Osgoode Station — giving you quick access to the UP Express, GO Transit, and the rest of the city.
For first-time visitors, that combination of walkability and transit access makes getting around simple.
What makes it a strong pick:
✓ Unique indoor/outdoor rooftop pool
✓ Easy walk or one-stop subway ride to Union Station
✓ Connected to the PATH system
✓ Central location near major attractions
✓ CN Tower views from many rooms
☞ If you are looking for a hotel close to public transportation with a great pool and easy access to Toronto’s top attractions, the Hilton is an ideal choice.
7. Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 9.0/10 ✓ Easy TTC access to Union Station ✓ Family-friendly downtown classic
I stay at this hotel frequently and it’s my go-to recommendation for friends and family visiting Toronto. This is honestly my favourite hotel in the city. I love that it’s newly renovated, the location is awesome, and the amenities make my stay so enjoyable.
Located directly across from Nathan Phillips Square and beside the Eaton Centre, the hotel puts you in the heart of downtown. While it’s slightly farther from Union Station, a quick subway ride gets you there in just minutes.
But it’s the year-round, indoor/outdoor rooftop pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre that I come for!
Why stay here:
✓ Massive year-round indoor/outdoor pool — warm and ideal for kids
✓ One of the best hotel gyms in downtown Toronto
✓ Recently renovated rooms with modern finishes
✓ Steps from shopping, dining, and major TTC subway lines
✓ Quick subway access to Union Station
✓ Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus stop is located directly in front of the hotel
Things to consider: There’s no large formal restaurant onsite (though there is a café and bar). However, you’re surrounded by hundreds of restaurants within walking distance, so dining options are never an issue.
Pro Tip: The Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus stop is located directly in front of the hotel making this an ideal hotel for easy access to Toronto’s only sightseeing bus tour.
☞ If you’re looking for a family-friendly downtown hotel with quick TTC access to Union Station and a large rooftop pool the Sheraton Centre is your best hotel option in downtown Toronto.
8. The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10 ✓ Walkable to Union Station ✓ Waterfront views & pet-friendly
Whenever we have friends travelling with pets, this is the hotel we always recommend. If you’re traveling with your dog, this is one of the most welcoming hotels in the city.
This hotel is also right beside the Toronto Islands ferry terminal making a day trip to the Islands a delightful experience. You can even take your pup to the Toronto Islands directly from the nearby ferry dock.
Union Station is walkable – or just one quick streetcar stop away. You’re also steps from the Toronto Islands ferry terminal and a beautiful harbourfront walking path, while still within reach of the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Scotiabank Arena.
This is a large, full-service hotel — so expect scale rather than boutique charm — but what it delivers is space, views, and strong amenities.
What makes it stand out:
✓ Spacious rooms and suites — ideal for families or longer stays
✓ Pet-friendly with no extra fees (dog beds, bowls & waste bags included)
✓ Stunning sunrise views over Lake Ontario
✓ Indoor pool and wellness amenities
✓ Walkable to downtown attractions
✓ Easy access to Union Station & quick trip to Billy Bishop Airport
☞ If you’re looking for a hotel with incredible sunrise and sunset views over the water or pet-friendly policies are a priority, The Westin Harbour Castle is the perfect fit.
9. Novotel Toronto Centre
⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10 ✓ Easy walk to Union Station ✓ Excellent mid-range value
When we want to stay within walking distance of Union Station without paying luxury hotel prices, Novotel Toronto Centre is one of the smartest value picks downtown. Located on The Esplanade, it’s just a short, easy 5 minute walk to Union Station.
This recently renovated mid-range hotel offers modern, refreshed rooms and strong value for its prime location. You’re right beside St. Lawrence Market — one of the best food spots in Toronto — and within walking distance of the Hockey Hall of Fame, CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Toronto Islands ferry terminal.
What makes it a great pick:
✓ Updated rooms in a modern, stylish setting
✓ Stage Door Lounge serving cocktails and snacks until midnight
✓ On-site restaurant plus dozens of cafés and bars nearby
✓ Indoor pool — ideal for families
✓ Walkable to Union Station at a more approachable price point
While it doesn’t offer historic grandeur like the Fairmont or high-rise skyline drama like the Delta, it consistently delivers comfort, location, and value — which is exactly what many first-time visitors need.
☞ Book the Novotel if you want a value hotel close to St. Lawrence Market and Union – but don’t wait it fills quickly during summer weekends and major events.
10. Holiday Inn Express Downtown Toronto
⭐️ Rating: 9.0/10 ✓ Walkable to Union Station ✓ Great value with free breakfast
I’m a huge fan off the Holiday Inn Express hotel chain for it’s consistent value and free breakfast and the Holiday Inn Toronto is an example of an excellent value option close to St. Lawrence Market.
It’s about a 20-minute walk to Union Station, but just a 4-minute walk from St. Lawrence Market. It’s also close to the Distillery District, Eaton Centre shopping mall, CN Tower, waterfront, and major downtown attractions.
If you’re looking for an affordable downtown stay and are willing to walk a little further, the Holiday Inn is one of the best value options in the area. It’s simple, clean, reliable — and often priced below some of the higher-end hotels closer to the station.
This is a no-frills hotel — but in a good way. It delivers comfort, convenience, cleanliness, and practicality without the luxury price tag.
What makes it a smart pick:
✓ Free hot breakfast buffet (including those famous cinnamon buns)
✓ Coffee maker and microwave in-room
✓ Secured on-site self-parking (paid) with direct elevator access
✓ Clean, comfortable rooms at a competitive price
✓ Easy walk to St. Lawrence Market and downtown highlights
☞ If you are looking for a budget-friendly hotel just a 20-minute walk to Union Station and close to all of Toronto’s main attractions, the Holiday Inn Express is an excellent option for first-time visitors.
How to Choose the Right Hotel Near Union Station
Still unsure? Ask yourself these three questions:
📍Do I want to walk everywhere — or am I okay with a short subway ride?
✓ If you want to step out and be directly at Union Station, choose Fairmont Royal York, Delta by Marriott, or Le Germain.
✓ If you’re okay with a 10–20 minute walk or quick TTC ride, Hilton, Sheraton, and Holiday Inn offer great value.
📍 Is this a special occasion or a practical city trip?
✓ Celebrating something? Go with the Fairmont Royal York, Omni King Edward, or the Delta by Marriott.
✓ Just need a clean, central base? Novotel or Holiday Inn are excellent picks.
📍 What’s my Toronto priority?
- Closest to Union Station → Fairmont Royal York
- Blue Jays game? → Marriott City Centre
- Leafs, Raptors game or concert? → Le Germain Maple Leaf Square
- Pet Friendly? → Westin Harbour Castle
- Great Pool? → Sheraton Centre
- Access to shopping? → Hilton Toronto
- Budget → Holiday Inn Express
Answer those, and your choice becomes much clearer.
FAQ: Staying Near Union Station in Toronto
Yes — especially for first-time visitors. It’s central, walkable, and connected to every major transit line, including the UP Express to Pearson Airport. Billy Bishop City Airport is also close to here. Staying near Union Station makes navigating the city simple, especially if you are visiting Toronto without a car.
Yes. Union Station is located in downtown Toronto’s financial and entertainment districts. It’s a busy, well-lit area surrounded by major hotels, office buildings, and attractions. You will see unhoused people in and around the station, so you still want to be careful and stay aware in this major Canadian city.
Union Station is just 25 minutes from Toronto Pearson International Airport via the UP Express train. It’s one of the easiest airport transfers in North America. Billy Bishop City Airport is just 10 minutes from Union and you can catch a free shuttle bus from the Royal York.
No. In fact, it’s often easier without one. You can walk to major attractions, use the subway and streetcars, or take GO Transit for day trips like Niagara Falls. Public transportation in downtown Toronto is easy to use, making it simple to stay near Union with out a car.
They can be — especially during sports games, concerts, summer weekends, and holidays. Because of the prime location and convenience, demand is high. But this is true for Toronto as a whole. Booking accommodations early is the best way to secure good rates in the city.
Yes! One of the biggest perks of staying near Union Station? It makes visiting Niagara Falls incredibly easy. From Union Station, you can take a direct GO Train or bus to Niagara Falls. Bus tours will also pick up from many hotels close to Union Station, make a day trip an easy option too!
No, but hotels near Rogers Stadium are extremely limited and it’s easy to get to Rogers Stadium from Union Station by public transportation. Rogers Stadium is located about 45 minutes north of downtown Toronto, near Downsview. However, it’s easy to get to the venue by subway or GO Train from Union Station.
If you’re coming to Toronto specifically for a summer concert, I strongly suggest booking a downtown hotel near Union Station and planning to use public transit rather than trying to stay near the stadium itself. This way, you get the best of both worlds — you can explore Toronto’s main attractions during the day and still get to your concert without needing a car.
Why Staying Near Union Station Is A Smart Choice
One of the most common questions I get as a local travel guide is where to stay in Toronto. I always recommend staying close to Union Station for first-time visitors. Why?
🚌 Union is Toronto’s transportation hub – subway, streetcar, GO Train, VIA train, and UP Express
Easy transportation to Pearson International Airport – the UP Express will get you to the airport in 25 minutes – avoid the traffic chaos!
Easy transportation to Niagara Falls using the GO Train, FlixBus or Megabus
Walking distance to many Toronto attractions – CN Tower, Aquarium, Hockey Hall of Fame, St. Lawrence Market, The Well, Eaton Centre, Nathan Phillips Square
Close to sports and entertainment – Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, Roy Thompson Hall, Princess of Wales Theatre
Lots of restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars inside Union Station and close by.
Walking distance to Toronto’s waterfront including the ferry over to the Toronto Islands
Finally, there are many hotels options in the area to choose from – making it an ideal location for first-time visitors.
Just remember, if you’re visiting Toronto during the peak summer season, for a Leafs or Blue Jays game, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, or over the holidays, you will need to book your hotel early. The best-located hotels near Union Station fill up quickly and prices tend to rise with demand.
Still finalizing your plans to visit Toronto?
You might find these travel guides helpful:
- First-Time Visitors Guide to Toronto
- Best Time to Visit Toronto – A Seasonal Guide
- Best Hotels In Toronto with a Pool
- Things to do in Toronto for First Time Visitors
- Perfect Toronto and Niagara Travel Itinerary
☞ Join my Facebook Group: Toronto, Ontario, and Niagara Falls Canada Travel Tips and Planning to ask your questions and get personalized travel help from a local.
