At-a-Glance
| Hotel | Best For | Proximity to YTZ | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Hotel X Toronto | Luxury & Views | 5-minute drive | | The Westin Harbour Castle | Waterfront Proximity | 10-minute drive | | Radisson Blu Downtown | Harbourfront Access | 10-minute drive | | One King West | Business & Heritage | 15-minute drive |
Why Stay Near the Airport
Staying near Billy Bishop (YTZ) offers a distinct advantage for travellers who value time efficiency and waterfront access. Unlike Toronto Pearson (YYZ), which is roughly 25 kilometres away, Billy Bishop is located on the Toronto Islands, just minutes from the city's bustling core. By staying in the Harbourfront or West Queen West areas, you are mere moments from the pedestrian tunnel or the iconic ferry, allowing for a seamless transition from your hotel bed to your departure gate.
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Best Hotels by Terminal and Shuttle Access
While there are no hotels physically inside the terminal building at YTZ, several premium options sit within a short distance.
Hotel X Toronto
This is the ultimate choice for proximity. Located on the Exhibition Place grounds, Hotel X is only a 5-minute drive from the airport entrance. It offers rooftop pools, exceptional fitness facilities, and unparalleled views of the lake. It is perfect for those who want to avoid the downtown gridlock.
The Westin Harbour Castle
For those who prefer being right in the heart of the action, the Westin is located on the edge of Lake Ontario. While slightly further than Hotel X, it is perfectly positioned for those using the complimentary airport shuttle service that drops passengers at the Fairmont Royal York, which is a short walk from the Westin.
Getting To and From the Airport
Navigating to Billy Bishop is exceptionally straightforward. The airport is served by a state-of-the-art pedestrian tunnel that connects the mainland to the island terminal in approximately 6 minutes. If you prefer the scenic route, the ferry crossing is free of charge for pedestrians and takes roughly 90 seconds. Taxis and ride-shares are readily available at both the mainland pavilion and the airport arrivals area.
Early Departures, Layovers and Park-and-Fly
If you have an early morning flight, staying at a hotel near the waterfront is highly recommended. Because YTZ is tucked against the downtown core, you don't need to worry about heavy highway traffic if you are staying in the city centre. For "park-and-fly" options, ensure you check with specific hotels as most downtown Toronto properties utilize third-party lots rather than onsite airport parking, given the limited space on the island.
Where to Eat Near the Airport
After landing, you are only minutes away from some of Toronto's best dining. The Harbourfront area features a variety of casual eateries and high-end bistros. For a quick bite, the cafes along Queens Quay offer great coffee and pastries. If you have more time, head toward King Street West, which boasts an array of world-class restaurants to suit any palate.
For more comprehensive accommodation advice in the city, see our Toronto Hotel Recommendations. You can also explore our hub for hotels in toronto for more options.