What it is

A 1929 Chateauesque skyscraper and newly revamped 1,343-room hotel, with a gleaming indoor pool, spa and three unmissable bars and restaurants .

What it isn't

Hands off. Service here includes doting concierges, laundry, red cap bellmen, and a 24/7 security team trained in first aid and CPR.

What we think

If you thought all of the grande dame railway hotels were tucked beside mountain peaks, think again. Fairmont Royal York has been drawing heads in downtown Toronto since it opened in 1929, and is so tall— at 28 floors—it was once the most skyscraping tower in the entire British empire. Boldfaced names soon flocked here, and now everyone from Justin Bieber to Susan Sarandon have called it their home away from home. No wonder: the on-site pampering ranges from Toronto’s oldest barbershop to Skinjectables (exactly what it sounds like). Starter guest rooms can feel cozy at 250 square feet; we recommend booking the 500-square-foot Signature Room or Above. Either way, you’ll be treated to fluffy in-room bathrobes, high-def TVs, in-room coffee and tea, and the traditionally elegant interiors you expect from Fairmont.

You're here because

Members of the British royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II, have reportedly stayed here—no big deal.

The Moment

Ensconced in your rounded leather booth at Reign, you’re feeling a little like James Bond. Then your waiter brings dessert—aptly named the Torched Cloud, with devil’s chocolate gelato, meringue, and shortbread, and it’s official—you are Bond. “A martini. Shaken, not stirred.”

Restaurants & Bars

Clockwork Terrace - Toronto’s renowned cocktail lounge is a spacious, new outdoor terrace serving up the same sophisticated cocktails and delicious plates

Reign - Stylish restaurant serving inspired plates, built with seasonal ingredients from across Canada, and finessed with French mastery

Benihana Japanese Restaurant - A memorable dining experience with highly-skilled teppan chefs chopping and juggling right at your table

Afternoon Tea - Classic scones, savory sandwiches and fine pastries are complemented by curated Fairmont teas

Piper's Pub - Classic pub fare made with sustainable Ocean Wise seafood, Canadian beef and local cheeses

Location

In the heart of Old Toronto, two blocks from the Hockey Hall of Fame—where you can virtually play hockey with celeb players and see Stanley Cups dating back to the 1920s.