Hotels in Guelph

Guelph: Where Rivers Flow Through a Tapestry of Faith and Flora

Nestled in the heart of Ontario, Guelph enchants visitors with its charming blend of nature and culture. Stroll along the picturesque riverside trails, marvel at the stunning architecture of the majestic St. George's Cathedral, and explore the vibrant floral displays in local parks. The city boasts a rich tapestry of historic churches and a lively arts scene, making it perfect for culture enthusiasts. With delightful boutiques and cozy cafes, Guelph is an ideal romantic getaway or a serene escape. Experience the warmth of this inviting city, where every corner reveals a new story waiting to be discovered. For the best hotel rates in Guelph and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Guelph

Some of the best places to stay in Guelph are Paris, Georgetown and Ancaster. Paris, Georgetown, and Ancaster each offer unique charm for travelers. Paris is known for its picturesque landscapes and quaint downtown, making it perfect for first-time visitors. Georgetown boasts a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks, while Ancaster features historic sites and scenic trails. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to modern hotels, providing options for all budgets. Whether you seek comfort or convenience, you’ll find suitable stays in these delightful towns near Guelph. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Guelph:

1. ParisOpens in a new window: Paris is a charming destination that offers a delightful blend of culture and entertainment, making it perfect for families and romantic getaways. With attractions like the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts and the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. For accommodations, consider Arlington Hotel ParisOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that caters to business travelers and pet owners, providing multiple meeting rooms and a pet-friendly policy. Another option is TownePlace Suites by Marriott Brantford and Conference CentreOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that also welcomes pets and is ideal for those seeking a comfortable stay. For a unique experience, Clonmel CastleOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star bed and breakfast that offers direct beach access and various adventure activities, making it suitable for both business and leisure travelers.
2. GeorgetownOpens in a new window: Georgetown is a fantastic family-friendly destination with easy access to shopping and entertainment, featuring attractions like the Toronto Premium Outlets and Square One Shopping Centre. For accommodations, DoubleTree by Hilton Toronto Airport WestOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel located in the shopping district, offering excellent business amenities and pet-friendly options. Another great choice is Sandman Signature Mississauga HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, which focuses on family-friendly services and provides ample business facilities for corporate travelers. Lastly, Sheraton Gateway Hotel In Toronto International AirportOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel situated in the city center, perfect for those looking to explore the urban vibe while enjoying modern amenities.
3. AncasterOpens in a new window: Ancaster is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, featuring points of interest like McMaster University and the FirstOntario Centre. The area is well-suited for adventure lovers and those seeking a vibrant city experience. The Barracks InnOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel ideal for business and adventure travelers, offering business amenities and golf experiences. For a more intimate stay, Carrousel Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star bed and breakfast that welcomes pets and provides various adventure activities nearby. Lastly, Riverview MotelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star motel, features a range of sports activities, ensuring guests can enjoy the outdoors while having comfortable accommodations.

Things to do in Guelph for first time

A three-day visit to Guelph offers a delightful escape into a vibrant natural landscape of rivers, lush parks, and blooming gardens. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, while also immersing themselves in local festivals, live music, and artistic performances that celebrate the community’s rich culture. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Guelph:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Guelph at the Rockwood Conservation Area, where you can hike through scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Afterward, make your way to the Limehouse Conservation Area, known for its unique dolostone cliffs and tranquil surroundings, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Conclude your day at Terre Bleu Lavender Farm, where you can stroll through fragrant lavender fields and savor delightful lavender-infused treats in their charming café.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Waterloo Region Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the area. Next, visit the Homer Watson House and Gallery, showcasing stunning art pieces and beautiful gardens. Afterward, unwind at Riverside Park, where you can take a leisurely walk along the trails, have a picnic, or enjoy the playgrounds and scenic views by the river.
• Day 3: Begin with an adrenaline rush at Zipline Extreme, where you can soar through the treetops for a thrilling experience. Afterward, head over to the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery to appreciate contemporary art exhibits and local talent. Finally, make your way to the West Montrose Covered Bridge, a picturesque spot perfect for photos and a relaxing stroll along the river, wrapping up your Guelph exploration on a high note.

5 tips to find a great Guelph hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Guelph is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. If you’re traveling internationally, it’s advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure more affordable prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience Guelph's highlights, such as its beautiful cathedral and picturesque riverside. This way, you can enjoy great value for money while exploring the city's charm.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to Guelph can lead to fantastic savings on hotel accommodations. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might find competitive rates on hotels with refundable options and a price guarantee. To enhance your chances of scoring great rates, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for flash sales and exclusive promotions, ensuring you stay informed about opportunities to save while enjoying good availability in Guelph.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Guelph.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Guelph is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can explore the area using transportation options like buses or bicycles, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Guelph. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Guelph

Here are a few popular dishes in Guelph, Ontario, Canada:

• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish that originated in Quebec, poutine is a delightful combination of crispy french fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. In Guelph, you can find unique variations, such as adding pulled pork or sautéed mushrooms, making it a perfect comfort food that reflects the region's culinary creativity. It's often enjoyed at casual eateries and is a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of local flavors.
• Butter Tarts: Known as a classic Canadian dessert, butter tarts are decadent pastries filled with a sweet, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Guelph boasts several bakeries where you can sample both traditional and innovative versions, including those with raisins or chocolate. These treats are often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations, embodying the warmth of Canadian hospitality.

Best time to go to Guelph

Guelph experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.0°F (-6.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.7°F (20.4°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Guelph are March, April, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

Guelph Travel Information