Navigating Toronto transit

Navigating a new city can be daunting. Thankfully, Toronto has a reliable, grid-based transit system operated by the TTC. Here is everything you need to know about fares, subway lines, and getting to the city center.

Photo: Andrew Rivett / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

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1. Fares and PRESTO Cards The simplest way to ride is by tapping your credit/debit card or using a PRESTO card.

• Single Fare: $3.35 CAD for adults.
• One-Day Pass: $13.50 CAD (provides unlimited travel for one day).
• Tapping Rules: Tap your card or PRESTO on the reader when entering a subway station, bus, or streetcar. You do not need to tap off when exiting.
• 2-Hour Transfer: Tapping provides a free 2-hour transfer window. You can switch between subways, buses, and streetcars without paying again.

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2. Subway Lines The subway system has two main lines:

• Line 1 (Yonge-University): A U-shaped line running north-south, connecting Union Station to downtown hubs like Dundas, Bloor, and Yorkdale.
• Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth): Runs east-west along Bloor Street, connecting you to High Park and the Danforth Greek town.


Photo: Milan Suvajac / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

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3. Getting from Pearson Airport (YYZ)

• UP Express Train: The fastest option. Runs every 15 minutes between Pearson Airport and Union Station.


Photo: booledozer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

• Cost: $12.35 CAD one-way.
• Duration: Exactly 25 minutes.
• Alternative (TTC Bus): Take the 900 Airport Express bus to Kipling Station, then take Subway Line

2. Cost is only $3.35 CAD, but takes about 60-75 minutes.