The Windsor Arms Hotel has been a home from home for visiting royalty, aristocracy and movie stars for decades. Originally built in 1927, and completely renovated in 1999, the hotel retains a quality of a bygone era. Each of the 28 suites is decorated in a warm style with creams and beiges, Frette-sheeted beds and handmade furnishings. Modern amenities include iPod docks, sound systems and butler cupboards for discreet around-the-clock room service. The big limestone bathrooms have Jacuzzi baths. Afternoon Tea at the Windsor Arms is an institution and is taken in the Parisian-inspired lobby tea room or by the fire in the historic, lush purple room. An enchanting and romantic space and is where Richard Burton proposed to Elizabeth Taylor in 1967.

The homely Living Room restaurant feels like an English drawing room, with a good menu and extensive wine list supported by the 20,000-bottle wine cellar. Although the hotel’s location on a quiet street in the upscale Yorkville district, means you have plenty of dining options within walking distance. The 4th and 5th floors are where you’ll find the indoor saltwater pool and a full-service spa, gym and several tranquil treatment rooms. Built to blend into the University of Toronto's neo-Gothic style, the Windsor Arms has long lived up to its grand stone entrance, monogrammed awnings and stained glass windows.