Getting Around Toronto
Getting Around Toronto
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
Getting around Toronto can be interesting, especially when you realize that the transit system operates on a pretty efficient network, but it does take a bit of getting used to. One thing you’ll find is that it works differently than what you might expect if you’re familiar with other cities. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is your best friend here, and it's got everything from subways to streetcars to buses.If you're thinking about hopping on the subway, you’ll want to check out the Yonge-University line, which runs through the heart of the city. For streetcars, the 501 Queen is a classic route that takes you right through downtown and into the Beaches area (which is lovely for a stroll). The general operating hours for the subway are roughly from 6 AM to 1:30 AM, with some late-night services on the weekends.
Now, about the prices—it's not too bad compared to other cities. A regular fare is around CAD 3.25, while a day pass will cost you CAD 13.50. Some might say that big cities like New York or London can feel pricier. Oh, and here’s a common mistake: many visitors think they can just hop onto the streetcar without paying. Trust me, the TTC staff let you know pretty quickly that you need a Presto card or exact change for cash fares (which isn’t as easy as it sounds).
Now for a local hack: if you’re planning on using transit a lot during your stay, consider getting a Presto card. It’s a smart card that you can preload with money and tap on and off at the turnstiles and streetcars. You’ll save a little bit versus buying individual tickets. Plus, the convenience is fantastic!
I once missed the 504 King bus while trying to watch the streetcar arrive, and I ended up waiting for a good 20 minutes in the cold. Talk about a frustrating experience! On the flip side, I once jumped on a streetcar and unexpectedly ended up near the Distillery District, which was a lovely surprise.
Rush hour here can feel like a whirlwind. If you're commuting around 8 AM or 5 PM, be prepared for packed trains—definitely try to avoid standing right at the doors unless you want to get jostled a bit.
And if you're in Toronto during winter, be aware of weather-related delays. Snow can occasionally slow things down, especially with streetcars—so always check the TTC app for real-time updates.
As a parting note, grab a window seat on the streetcar when you’re on the 501 Queen; you’ll get to see a lot of the city’s charm unfold as you roll by some great restaurants and shops. Happy exploring!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
The metro in Toronto, also known as the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), consists of four lines (Yonge-University, Bloor-Danforth, Scarborough, and Sheppard) that efficiently connect key areas of the city, including downtown, the airport, and various cultural hotspots. To pay for a ride, you can use a PRESTO card, which costs a one-time fee of $6, or buy single-ride tickets costing $3.25 each; however, it's often more economical to utilize the PRESTO card for multiple trips. A great tip for tourists is to plan your journey ahead using the TTC app or website, which provides real-time information, as some stations can be quite busy, especially during peak hours. Always be mindful of your belongings and stay behind the yellow line on the platform for safety.
popular with tourists
The tram in Toronto, operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), provides an extensive network covering key areas such as Downtown, the waterfront, and various neighborhoods like Kensington Market and the Distillery District. To pay for your ride, you can use the PRESTO card which costs around $6 to purchase, or you can use cash ($3.25), but it requires exact change, as drivers do not give change back. A great tip for tourists is to utilize the TTC trip planner on their website or app to determine the best route and real-time arrival information, which can save you time navigating the city. Remember to validate your fare on the streetcar by tapping your PRESTO card when you board or retaining your cash receipt – this is crucial to avoid fines. Finally, always be aware of your surroundings, and stand clear of the tracks to ensure safety as trams can approach quickly.
Taxis in Toronto are readily available throughout the city, especially in busy areas like downtown, the Entertainment District, and near major attractions like the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Fares typically start at around $3.25, with an additional charge of approximately $1.75 per kilometer, so longer trips can add up; most taxis accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller rides or drivers who may not have a credit card machine. A key tip for tourists is to always look for taxis with a illuminated “TAXI” sign on top to ensure you’re getting a legitimate ride. Additionally, it's best to request a taxi from your hotel or eatery, rather than hailing one off the street at night, to enhance your safety. Lastly, be sure to confirm the cab company name and driver name before getting in, to ensure you’re stepping into the right vehicle.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Toronto. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.