Overview
Toronto's public transit system is built around the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), which operates the metro subway, streetcars, and buses across the city. You'll also use GO Transit for regional commuter rail and bus connections to the Greater Toronto Area. To ride, you'll need a fare payment method—either a PRESTO card (a reloadable smartcard available in physical or mobile wallet form), a PRESTO ticket, Interac debit or credit card, or cash. Children 12 and under ride free, while passengers 13 and older must tap their own card or ticket at the entry point. The system is integrated, meaning a single fare allows you to transfer between subways, streetcars, and buses within a two-hour window (though cash payers do not receive two-hour transfers).
The network
Subway system
The TTC operates five subway lines that form the backbone of the transit system. Line 1 (Yonge–University) is U-shaped, running north–south through central Toronto. Line 2 (Bloor–Danforth) runs east–west along principal streets. The system is being expanded with new lines, including Line 5 (Eglinton) and Line 6 (Finch West), though these require proof-of-payment before boarding and do not accept payment onboard.
Streetcars
Toronto has the largest streetcar system in the Americas. Eleven streetcar routes are concentrated mainly in the downtown core, with all connecting to the subway system. The TTC operates four of these routes as part of the Blue Night Network, a night bus service. Notable routes include Route 509 Harbourfront (running along Queens Quay), Route 511 Bathurst (serving Bathurst Avenue), and Route 510 Spadina (serving Spadina Avenue).
Buses
Approximately 150 bus routes form a grid along main streets throughout the city, with most connecting to one or more subway stations. The TTC operates the Blue Night Network, a night bus service with routes including streetcar service on four lines. Some routes, such as the seasonal Route 200 to Toronto Zoo and community routes 405 and 406, do not connect to subway stations.
GO Transit rail and buses
GO Transit is a provincially run interregional commuter system serving the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is an airport rail link running between Union Station and Toronto Pearson International Airport, with stops at Weston and Bloor GO stations. GO Transit also operates regional bus routes connecting Toronto to nearby cities including Hamilton, Barrie, Oshawa, and Niagara Falls. Ontario Northland Motor Coach Services operates bus routes to destinations in northern Ontario.
Ferry system
Toronto Island ferries connect the Toronto Islands in Lake Ontario to the mainland, departing from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. A ferry service also operates between the foot of Bathurst Street and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, with a crossing distance of just 121 metres—the world's shortest regularly scheduled ferry route. The airport also provides pedestrian tunnel access to the city.
Tickets & fares
Payment methods and single fares
You can pay using a PRESTO card (physical or mobile wallet), a PRESTO ticket, Interac debit or credit card (including mobile), or cash. Single-trip fares vary by payment method. Using PRESTO, an adult pays $3.30, youth aged 13–19 pay $2.35, seniors aged 65+ pay $2.25, and post-secondary students pay $2.10. Cash fares are $3.35 for adults, $2.40 for youth, and $2.30 for seniors, but cash payers do not receive a two-hour transfer benefit. Interac debit or credit card fares are $3.30 for adults. Children 12 and under ride free on all services.
PRESTO and tickets
PRESTO cards and tickets can be purchased at all subway stations, Line 5 and Line 6 stations, Shoppers Drug Mart, and select Customer Service Outlets. PRESTO one-ride tickets cost $3.35, two-ride tickets cost $6.70, and day passes cost $13.50. Importantly, starting September 1, 2026, a monthly fare-capping system will be introduced: after 47 taps using PRESTO or Interac, remaining trips that month are free.
Passes (current and legacy)
Monthly and 12-month passes are being phased out and will be discontinued on August 31, 2026. Current prices are: Adult Monthly $156.00, Adult 12-Month $143.00, Youth/Senior (13–19, 65+) Monthly $128.15, Youth/Senior 12-Month $117.45, Post-secondary Monthly $128.15, and Fair Pass (low-income) Monthly $123.25. Special passes include the Convention Pass for conference attendees and the Fair Pass Transit Discount Program for eligible low-income customers.
Accessibility and special fares
Wheel-Trans provides door-to-door accessible transit service for persons with physical disabilities. The Support Person Assistance Card allows carers to travel free with eligible customers. CNIB Transit cards are available for eligible Canadian National Institute for the Blind customers. Veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members ride free on GO Transit with valid identification.
Line 5 Eglinton and Line 6 Finch West
These new lines require you to pay before boarding; no onboard payment is accepted. You must carry proof of payment.
From the airport
Toronto Pearson International Airport
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), located in Mississauga, is 25 minutes by train or 30–50 minutes by car from downtown Toronto. The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is the most direct public-transit option, running between the airport and Union Station in downtown Toronto, with intermediate stops at Weston and Bloor GO stations. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) is close to downtown and serves short-haul flights. A free ferry service operates every 15 minutes between the airport terminal and the mainland (crossing just 121 metres), or you can use the pedestrian tunnel with moving walkways. A free shuttle bus connects the mainland terminal to the Fairmont Royal York Hotel across from Union Station, providing convenient access to Union Station's subway and GO Transit services. Alternatively, TTC streetcars are within a short walk: Route 509 Harbourfront (4-minute walk to Queens Quay & Bathurst), Route 511 Bathurst (6-minute walk to Fleet St & Bathurst), and Route 510 Spadina (approximately 15-minute walk).
Etiquette & customs
When riding Toronto transit, queue in an orderly fashion when boarding buses and streetcars. On escalators in subway stations, stand on the right side to allow others to walk on the left. The TTC designates priority seating for seniors, people with disabilities, and pregnant passengers; give up your seat if needed. Eating and drinking are permitted on TTC vehicles, though consuming strong-smelling foods is considered inconsiderate. During rush hours (typically 7–10 am and 4–7 pm weekdays), expect crowded vehicles; be prepared to move toward the centre of the car to make room for boarding passengers. Loud conversations and phone calls are discouraged on transit, particularly in designated quiet zones.
Official links
Download the TTC's official trip planner and real-time service information before your journey to avoid delays and find the quickest route to your destination.