Top 10 Toronto hotels

1. A Haven for Artists: The Gladstone Hotel

In the past decade, the Gladstone Hotel has transformed from a notoriously seedy 19th-century establishment to an alluring destination with an artistic twist. This remarkable resurrection was spearheaded by local architect Eberhard Zeidler and his daughters Kate and Christine, who took it upon themselves to rejuvenate the venue. The dramatic transformation is captured in the film Last Call At the Gladstone Hotel. Today, it is a pulsating hub of nouveau bohemian culture.

The renewed spirit of the Gladstone Hotel radiates through its 37 uniquely designed rooms, each one a product of a local artist's imagination. The 'Teen Queen', bedecked with 1970s heart-throb poster art, and 'The Trading Post', with playfully furry drapes, offer starkly contrasting styles. The 'Canadiana Room', featuring a forest mural and an antler chandelier, immerses you in a rustic atmosphere.

With room rates starting from C$175 (£89) for a standard room and reaching up to C$475 (£243) for the extravagant two-story 'Rock Star Suite', the Gladstone Hotel caters to a variety of taste and budget. Please note, it is a non-smoking establishment.

2. Luxury and Elegance: The Hazelton Hotel

Experience opulence at The Hazelton Hotel, whose accommodations are sure to lighten your wallet, boasting a price tag of $1.50 per thread of its 300-thread-count Italian bed sheets. Established in 2007, this hotel quickly made a name for itself within the glittering Yorkville district, becoming the coveted destination for luxury car owners. The hotel spares no expense; it is complete with a 42-inch plasma TV, heated bathroom floors, complimentary bottled water, and a renowned restaurant - ONE by Mark McEwan - ideal for indulging and socializing. The hotel even provides a private 25-seat screening room for guests interested in viewing their own film creations.

· Room rates commence from C$450 (£230) at The Hazelton Hotel.

For those who prefer budget accommodations, the bustling city of Ontario offers a diverse range of lodging options. Whether it's comfortable dormitories or chic private rooms, one can easily find an affordable stay at one of the numerous Ontario hostels on www.ontariocahotel.com . These accommodations provide a mix of comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, making your Ontario trip memorable without breaking the bank.

3. Tranquil Paradise: Smiley's B&B, Algonquin Island

For those seeking a unique and somewhat exclusive retreat, Smiley's B&B could be your dream destination. Though it only offers a pair of accommodations - a four-place studio and the stylishly-dubbed Belvedere, which is a compact room rich in window views rather than floor area - it's the strikingly unique location that sets it apart. This serene haven, which is free of vehicular traffic and reachable by a 15-minute ferry trip from downtown, allows guests to retreat from the bustling city life. As a unique feature, weather permitting, there's even a naturist-friendly beach.

· Rates for Belvedere start from C$75 (£38) per night, available all year round, and for the Studio: C$165 (£84) per night or a weekly rate of $900 (£459), available seasonally.

Famed for its stunning views and tranquil surroundings, Smiley's B&B offers a strategic location to reconnect with nature without losing touch with the city. Its stripped-down sustainability practices not only limit the environmental impact, but also contribute to the rustic charm of the place.

As a bonus, did you know that Toronto Islands are actually a chain of 15 small islands interconnected by pedestrian pathways? This makes Smiley's B&B a top choice for those who love exploration and adventure.

4. A Nod to the Past: The Fairmont Royal York

The Royal York, a gem amidst Canada's earliest grand hotels, stands as an indelible relic of the country's bygone railway era. The hotel, formerly renowned as Canada's tallest edifice, experienced a period of slight decline, only to resurrect its splendor through a major refurbishment costing $100m. Given its location, it is but a leisurely stroll away from prime locations such as the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (home to baseball), and the Air Canada Centre (the Mecca of hockey and basketball). Conveniently positioned opposite the renowned Hockey Hall of Fame, it's no surprise to find it teeming with international visitors, predominantly Americans, seeking an authentic Canadian encounter.

· The cost of accommodation varies, ranging from $209 to $309 (£107 to £158), suitable for solo travelers or pairs.

5. For the Athletically Inclined: Hotel at Rogers Centre

The hotel formally christened as the Renaissance Toronto Downtown Hotel is a Marriott establishment noted for its extraordinary selling draw - a view of the field from 70 of its rooms. This "four diamond" luxury establishment residing within a major league sports arena makes it one-of-a-kind globally. Whether you're in town to catch the Toronto Blue Jays in action or a truck rally, all from the comfort of your hotel room bed with meal service, this is the right destination for you.

·The sophisticated Deluxe Room, accommodating up to four occupants, is priced at $599 (£306).

6. Gourmet's Choice: The Baldwin Inn

Despite its petite size, boasting only six rooms, the charm of The Baldwin Inn is boundless. Its attractive attribute is its prime location nestled in the heart of Toronto's downtown, also known as Baldwin Village. This culinary paradise hosts an overabundance of top-notch restaurants within a 100m radius, allowing for a diverse dining experience every night of the week. Prime picks include the exotic flavors found at Mata Hari Grill, a Malaysian food haven, and the delectable Chinese savory buns offered by the Yung Sing Pastry Shop.A brief stroll away you'll find cultural gems like the Frank Gehry designed Art Gallery of Ontario, set to reopen its doors in fall 2008, and Toronto's chief architectural wonder, the Ontario College of Art and Design.

· The accommodation pricing ranges from C$95 to C$105 (£48 to £54) per night.

7. Experience Student Life: Summer Residences at New College, University of Toronto

Are you curious about the student living experience in a North American university? Take advantage of the opportunity during summer break when the students vacate the residences. You'll enjoy the comforts of an air-conditioned room and a single bed. As a guest at Canada's biggest educational institution, benefit from free high-speed internet connection. Added perks include a meal plan offered at the ground floor cafe, providing a holistic college living experience right in the bustling downtown area.

· Nightly room price: C$39.50 (£20) (As of 2007)

8. Experience Affluence in Academia: The Madison Manor

An inviting anomaly within Toronto's hospitality landscape is Madison Manor. Hidden in plain sight just a block north of the University of Toronto, this Victorian era guesthouse offers an eclectic blend of comfort and charm. Its atmosphere embodies the elegance of a wealthy, albeit peculiar, relative’s abode, steeped in a touch of aristocratic eccentricity. The Manor is annexed to the illustrious Madison Pub, a celebrated student haunt, ensuring that a vibrant ambiance is just a walk away. The guestrooms, although quaint, radiate a warm familiarity, echoing artifacts from bygone times - a testament to Canada's history transitioning during Queen Victoria's rule. An additional perk? The city's subway system lies just around the corner.

· Prices for rooms range between C$99 and C$129 (£50.50 to £66) per night, while suites can be booked for anything from C$149 to C$189 (£76 to £96). These rates include breakfast.

9. Chic Elegance: The Drake

Regarded as an emblem of style and elegance, The Drake has surpassed the contemporary fashionistas' standard of cool. Its sophisticated interiors and refined rooms continue to echo the charm of boutique hotels. What was once a colossal failure of a structure, was acquired and transformed dramatically by local tycoon Jeff Stober. Following a substantial seven-figure remodel, this architectural marvel reopened to the public in 2004 and is recognized for playing a significant role in revitalizing the West Queen Street West (WQW) district. As a result, property values in the neighborhood noticed a surge. The Drake’s main restaurant and lounge effortlessly blend into a mix of style-icon spots and an aura reminiscent of ski-chalet coziness. The sheltered rooftop terrace, known as the Sky Yard, is perpetually lit, providing the city's remaining smokers with a haven.

· The Drake offers rooms at various rates. The "Crash pad" is available at C$179 (£91), "dens" can be booked at C$209, and suites start from $289 (£147).

10. Where stars align during the Toronto International Film Festival: The Park Hyatt

Though Toronto might not carry the glamourous reputation of Los Angeles, it becomes a bustling hub of glitz and celebrity during the 10-day stretch of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September. While stars, including the likes of Jude Law and Keira Knightley, may not necessarily use it as their lodging, they have been known to indulge in the rooftop bar's specialty 10-pound cocktails. If you're a guest at this hotel, you get the VIP treatment of ensured access, giving you the chance to gracefully step past the velvet barrier without a second thought on the costs.

Basking in the heart of the city, it showcases the quintessential Canadian hospitality with luxurious services to make your stay remarkable. Toronto's rich cultural diversity is mirrored in the amalgamated world-class cuisines and the local arts scene.

· For the TIFF 2008 (September 4-13), the room pricing kicked off at C$749 (£382) for the basic mandatory stay of 10 nights.