Rick Steves type neighborhoods in Toronto?

Over the past few years, the city of Toronto has imposed heavy restrictions on Airbnb type lodgings, and imposed hefty taxes on them. So it might be cheaper to go with a hotel if cost is a factor. Most listings in the city center will be in modern high-rise condo buildings. Look for a listing that south of the the St george or Bloor/Young Station on subway line 1.

Excellent information. I didn't know this about Toronto. I'll consider hotels as well. Thanks for the specific location information

As for neighborhoods, we spent some time in the Kensington Market and Little Italy areas of Toronto late last Summer, visiting an old University friend. Little Italy has kind of gone upscale since I was there decades ago, but there are lots of funky small restaurants and shops in most of the small streets in the Kensington Market area. Google calls it “a walkable bohemian neighbourhood”.

that sounds about right Peter. Thanks for info. I'll look at Kensington and Little Italy

You could save a lot of money by staying in the Don Mills area. They’ve improved the subway dramatically there and there are lots of buses. The Danforth is also a good option as it’s on the subway line. Look around Main and Danforth or a bit east of there to save $$.

Dee, my wife and I have lived in Toronto for decades. There are numerous neighborhoods that might appeal and fit your descriptors to a tee---including our own Leslieville. Happy to try to answer any questions about any T.O. neighbourhood or attraction.
Your choice of Fall=best time to visit here.

I am done. The end.

Thanks bxrlover and gregglamarsh! great ideas. I've located those areas on a map. They sound like they'd work for me

My husband and I spent a few days at an Air BnB in the "little Portugal" neighborhood in 2022. The Air BnB was the bottom floor of a house; the owners lived upstairs. We loved that neighborhood. Lots of charm, independent businesses, walkable, close to transit, lots to see/eat within about a 10-15 minute walk.

Kayla - that looks about right too. Thanks for chiming in

Kensington should be considered as part of a 2-fer or even 3-fer. It is adjoined to the larger of our city's 2 Chinatowns and as well, is within walking distance of that above-mentioned College/Bathurst area. The latter is one of Canada's best areas for nightlife but also has great places to have lunch at. If the Art Gallery appeals to you, it too is within that same clustered area. The Lillian Smith public library branch there is one of the city's best art deco examples and has a public washroom for those with full bladders.

The Danforth (aka Greektown) is essential. There's just something about its friendly, safe, no-hassles vibe that makes it a must to visit.

The easterly Beach also beckons, as a great place to simply stroll the wooden boardwalk near the lake. *characterful place to eat there: the (Chinese food) Garden Gate, known mostly as 'the Goof' due to the ironic letters left showing after its neon sign once spattered out ages ago! The Fox rep theatre right across the road also adds value to any Beach visit. *That neighbourhood's public library branch is a beauty and has a public washroom as well.

In Leslieville, Eadreys deli makes outstanding food.
FWIW, the ROM museum offers freebie Tuesday nights once per month.

I am done. The end.

Thanks for the inside information Gregglemarsh! This is why I love this forum

Dee if you want, you might share your interests with us here, then more focused advice could be given.
And sorry about my messy message above--I had insomnia that night. Correction and tidying has occured for better reading comprehension.
cheers
I am done. the multi-kulti city