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Best Hostels in Toronto: Affordable and Stylish Stays in Canada's Largest City



Toronto is a dynamic, multicultural city that offers travelers a mix of urban excitement, artistic culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for the vibrant arts scene, the diverse food offerings, or its iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.


As any budget-savvy traveler knows, finding affordable yet comfortable accommodation is key to fully enjoying your time in a city. Luckily, Toronto is home to some fantastic hostels that offer a mix of affordability, convenience, and a fun social atmosphere. From peaceful, zen-inspired retreats to eco-friendly and socially vibrant hostels, Toronto's hostel scene has something for everyone.


In this blog, I’m sharing my favorite hostels in Toronto, perfect for solo adventurers, backpackers, and budget travelers. Whether you're looking for a social atmosphere, a serene hideaway, or a modern urban stay, these hostels are some of the best choices for your stay in Toronto.


1. Zen Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


If you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet retreat in the heart of the city, Zen Hostel is a perfect choice. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, Zen Hostel offers a serene and minimalist atmosphere that lives up to its name. With a focus on relaxation and simplicity, the hostel is designed to be a tranquil escape from the busy city streets while still keeping you close to Toronto’s top attractions.


The hostel has a calm, cozy environment with clean, minimalist rooms, making it an ideal place for travelers who want to relax and recharge. The dorm rooms are well-maintained and offer a lot of natural light, and the hostel provides a lovely outdoor space for guests to unwind in. Zen Hostel also has a communal kitchen where you can prepare your meals and a shared lounge area for guests to socialize or work.


Whether you're a digital nomad looking for a quiet place to work or a traveler who enjoys a peaceful atmosphere, Zen Hostel provides a welcoming and comfortable space in the middle of Toronto’s cultural hub.


Highlights:

  • Peaceful and minimalist atmosphere.

  • Located in Little Italy, close to restaurants and cafés.

  • Outdoor space for relaxation.

  • Clean and cozy dorm rooms.

  • Perfect for travelers looking for a calm environment.


Book Here: Zen Hostel


2. 49 Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


For travelers looking for a central location with all the essential amenities, 49 Hostel is a great option. Situated in the heart of Toronto, this hostel provides easy access to the city’s major attractions like Dundas Square, Eaton Centre, and Kensington Market. You’ll be right in the middle of Toronto’s cultural, shopping, and dining scene, making it an ideal base for exploring.


49 Hostel offers a variety of dorm and private room options, catering to both solo travelers and groups. The hostel is clean and well-organized, with comfortable beds, secure storage lockers, and free Wi-Fi throughout the building. One of the highlights of 49 Hostel is its friendly staff, who are always ready to help you with local tips, city tours, and recommendations to make your Toronto stay even better.


This hostel is known for its social atmosphere, so it’s great for meeting other travelers. Whether you’re new to the city or just passing through, 49 Hostel provides a lively, welcoming environment that makes it easy to connect with others while enjoying everything Toronto has to offer.


Highlights:

  • Centrally located near Toronto’s top attractions.

  • Social atmosphere with friendly staff.

  • Comfortable dorms and private rooms.

  • Great amenities, including secure lockers and free Wi-Fi.

  • Ideal for solo travelers and groups alike.


Book Here: 49 Hostel


3. Nox Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


Located in Toronto's hipster haven of Parkdale, Nox Hostel is perfect for travelers who want to stay in one of the coolest, most creative areas of the city. Parkdale is known for its eclectic vibe, with trendy cafés, vintage shops, and art galleries lining the streets. Nox Hostel fits right into this quirky neighborhood with its stylish design and laid-back vibe.


Nox Hostel has a modern, minimalist aesthetic, offering clean and comfortable dorm rooms as well as private options for those who prefer more privacy. The hostel is eco-friendly, with sustainability at its core, making it a favorite among environmentally-conscious travelers. It also offers a communal kitchen, a shared lounge area, and a rooftop terrace with a great view of the city skyline.


The social atmosphere at Nox Hostel is perfect for meeting new people, and the hostel frequently hosts events such as movie nights, game nights, and BBQs on the rooftop terrace. If you’re a traveler who loves exploring trendy neighborhoods and connecting with like-minded adventurers, Nox Hostel is the place for you.


Highlights:

  • Located in the trendy Parkdale neighborhood.

  • Stylish, modern design with eco-friendly initiatives.

  • Rooftop terrace with stunning city views.

  • Social events like movie nights and BBQs.

  • Perfect for environmentally-conscious travelers.


Book Here: Nox Hostel


4. Planet Traveler Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


Planet Traveler Hostel is one of the most eco-friendly and modern hostels in Toronto. Located in the heart of Kensington Market, one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Planet Traveler is ideal for travelers who want to experience the local culture and enjoy the city’s nightlife. This hostel has a strong commitment to sustainability, using energy-efficient systems and recycling programs to reduce its environmental impact.


The rooms at Planet Traveler are bright, comfortable, and clean, with a range of dorms and private rooms available. The hostel features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Toronto skyline, making it a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. The hostel also offers free breakfast, a communal kitchen, and regular social events, making it easy to meet fellow travelers.


One of the best things about Planet Traveler is its location in Kensington Market. The neighborhood is full of unique shops, cafés, bars, and street art, giving you a true taste of Toronto’s local flavor. It’s also a short walk from popular attractions like Chinatown and Queen Street West.


Highlights:

  • Eco-friendly and sustainable hostel.

  • Located in Kensington Market, close to bars, restaurants, and attractions.

  • Rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.

  • Free breakfast and regular social events.

  • Great for solo travelers and backpackers.




5. Samesun Toronto


Why It’s a Top Pick:


Part of the popular Samesun Hostel chain, Samesun Toronto is a fantastic option for travelers looking for a centrally located and social hostel experience. Situated near Kensington Market and the University of Toronto, this hostel offers easy access to some of the city's most vibrant areas. It’s the perfect base for exploring Toronto’s arts scene, food markets, and nightlife.


Samesun Toronto is known for its clean, comfortable dorm rooms and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It has a spacious common area where guests can socialize, relax, or work. The hostel offers great amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, and laundry facilities, making it a convenient place to stay for both short and long-term travelers.


The hostel hosts regular social events, including pub crawls, game nights, and city tours, giving you plenty of opportunities to meet new people and explore the city together. If you're looking for a lively, social atmosphere in a great location, Samesun Toronto is a perfect choice.


Highlights:

  • Centrally located near Kensington Market and the University of Toronto.

  • Friendly and social atmosphere with regular events.

  • Comfortable dorms with great amenities.

  • Ideal for solo travelers and those looking to meet others.

  • Clean and well-maintained facilities.


Book Here: Samesun Toronto


Why Choose a Hostel in Toronto?


Staying in a hostel in Toronto gives you the chance to explore this exciting city without breaking the bank. Toronto is a diverse, multicultural destination, and by staying in a hostel, you’ll not only save money but also meet other travelers and gain insider tips from the hostel staff. Many of these hostels offer organized social events, tours, and activities, which are great for solo travelers or those looking to make new friends while exploring the city.


Each hostel in this list offers something unique, whether it’s a calm, zen atmosphere, eco-friendly accommodations, or a vibrant social scene. Whether you’re here for the art, the food, or the cultural experiences, staying at one of these top hostels will enhance your time in Toronto.


Budget Travel Tips for Toronto:


  1. Explore Free Attractions: Toronto has several free attractions, including High Park, the Distillery District, and the beautiful beaches of Toronto Islands.

  2. Eat at Kensington Market: Kensington Market is full of affordable eateries where you can try a variety of international cuisines without spending too much.

  3. Use Public Transit: Toronto's public transportation system is reliable and affordable. Consider getting a day pass for unlimited rides on buses, streetcars, and subways.

  4. Visit Museums on Discount Days: Many of Toronto’s museums offer free or discounted entry on certain days, such as the Royal Ontario Museum on Fridays.

  5. Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls: If you’re staying in Toronto, consider taking a budget-friendly day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the most iconic attractions near the city.


Toronto is a city that offers something for everyone, and with these affordable hostel options, you can explore it all without breaking the bank! Happy travels!


 

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Hi! I'm Jill, a passionate business enthusiast, lifestyle and travel writer, and best-selling author. I've dedicated my career to teaching people how to travel on a budget.

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