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How to Go Downtown from YYZ: Your Ultimate Guide

When we travel to a new place, the first question that arises in our mind is where to go after leaving the airport?????

If you don’t have a proper plan, this time can annoy you a bit. So if you want to avoid this annoyance, you need to make the necessary preparations before leaving the house.

Then know how to easily reach the heart of the city from Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) on a trip to Canada.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is Canada’s busiest airport, located about 22.5 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of Downtown Toronto. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, there are several convenient ways to get from YYZ to the heart of Toronto. This guide will help you choose the best option based on your preferences, budget, and schedule.

1. Union Pearson Express (UP Express)

The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between YYZ and Downtown Toronto. The service operates every 15 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 25 minutes.

1.1 How to Use

Location: The UP Express station is located in Terminal 1 at Pearson Airport. If you arrive at Terminal 3, you can take the free Terminal Link train to Terminal 1.
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online, at ticket machines, or through the UP Express mobile app or can tap your mobile wallet at the entrance of UP Express.

Using your mobile wallet (credit or debit card) to travel is super convenient—just tap on, and no ticket is needed! Remember to tap again when you arrive at Union Station to complete your journey. Forgetting to tap off can result in higher charges, so don’t miss this important step!

Schedule: Trains run from early morning until late at night. Check the UP Express website for the latest schedule.

1.2 Cost

Adult Fare: Around $12.35 CAD one way.
Child Fare: Children under 12 ride free.

1.3 Pros & Cons

Fast and reliable.
Direct service to Union Station, a major transit hub in Downtown Toronto.
Free Wi-Fi on board.
More expensive than some other options.

2. Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)

The TTC offers a budget-friendly way to get downtown using a combination of bus and subway services. While it’s cheaper, it’s also slower and can be less convenient if you have a lot of luggage.

2.1 How to Use

Route: Take the 900 Airport Express bus from Pearson to Kipling Station on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth). Transfer to Line 2 Eastbound, and then switch to Line 1 (Yonge-University) Southbound at St. George Station to reach downtown.
Tickets: Purchase a PRESTO card or single-use tokens/tickets at Pearson. Fare payments can also be made using contactless credit cards or smartphones.
Schedule: The 900 Airport Express runs frequently from early morning until late at night.

2.2 Cost

Adult Fare: $3.35 CAD.
Youth/Senior Fare: $2.30 CAD.
Children (12 and under): Free.

2.3 Pros & Cons

Affordable.
Extensive transit network for further travel.

Takes longer (around 60-75 minutes).
Requires transfers and can be crowded during peak hours.

3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

For those who prefer door-to-door service, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available at Pearson Airport. This option is convenient, especially if you have heavy luggage or are traveling with a group.

3.1 How to Use

Location: Taxi stands are located outside of each terminal. For ride-sharing, follow the signs to the designated pick-up areas and use the app to book your ride.
Duration: Depending on traffic, the journey can take between 30 to 60 minutes.

3.2 Cost

Taxi Fare: Approximately $60-$75 CAD to downtown.
Ride-Sharing: Fares vary based on demand but are generally similar to taxi fares.

3.3 Pros & Cons

Convenient and direct.
Available 24/7.

Can be expensive, especially during peak hours.
Traffic can significantly affect travel time.

4. Airport Shuttle Services

Various private companies offer airport shuttle services to hotels and major landmarks in Downtown Toronto. These shuttles can be a good middle ground between public transit and taxis.

4.1 How to Use

Booking: Shuttle services need to be booked in advance online or at the airport.
Location: Pick-up locations vary; check with your shuttle provider for details.

4.2 Cost

Fare: Varies by company but generally ranges from $20 to $30 CAD per person.

4.3 Pros & Cons

Direct drop-off at major hotels.
More affordable than taxis for solo travelers.

Less flexibility in departure times.
May have multiple stops, increasing travel time.

5. Car Rentals

If you plan to explore beyond Toronto or prefer having your own vehicle, renting a car might be the best option. Pearson Airport hosts several car rental companies.

5.2 How to Use

Location: Car rental desks are located in each terminal.
Booking: Reserve online in advance for the best rates and vehicle availability.

5.3 Cost

Rates: Vary widely depending on the rental company, car type, and duration of rental.

5.4 Pros & Cons

Ultimate flexibility.
Useful if traveling beyond Toronto.

Parking in downtown Toronto can be expensive and challenging.
Additional costs for fuel, insurance, and parking.

Getting from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Downtown Toronto offers several options to fit different needs and budgets. Whether you choose the speed of the UP Express, the affordability of the TTC, the convenience of taxis and ride-sharing, the door-to-door service of airport shuttles, or the flexibility of renting a car, you can find a suitable way to start your journey into Toronto. Safe travels!

To know about the details of Toronto Pearson Airport Transportation And Parking Visit Here.

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