Quick Facts
- Opened
- 30 March 1954
- Operator
- Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
- Stations
- 75
- Lines
- 4 (Line 1–4) + Eglinton Crosstown (LRT)
- Daily riders
- ~1.0 million
- Network
- 77 km
- Airport
- Pearson YYZ via UP Express from Union Station
- Payment
- Presto card, contactless bank card, mobile pay
The Toronto Subway is Canada's busiest rapid transit system. Opened on 30 March 1954, it operates 75 stations across 4 lines and 77 km of track, serving the City of Toronto with connections to York Region, Vaughan, and the broader Greater Toronto Area.
The subway is operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and integrates with TTC streetcars, buses, and the GO Transit regional rail network under the Presto card payment system. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT (expected to open in 2025–2026) is adding a new rapid transit corridor across midtown Toronto.
Toronto's subway is notable for its clean, station-art-decorated interiors — many stations feature commissioned public art installations as part of the TTC's art program. The Spadina Extension to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (Line 1) opened in December 2017, connecting Toronto to Vaughan in York Region.
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is not directly served by the subway. Instead, the Union Pearson Express (UP Express) train runs from Union Station (the main subway hub) to the airport in 25 minutes for $12.35. Union Station is on Lines 1 and 2 and is also the hub for GO Transit, VIA Rail, and Porter Airlines' downtown terminal.
Fares use the Presto card — Canada's regional transit smart card that works on TTC, GO Transit, York Region Transit, Brampton Transit, and other regional services. Single-ride fares are $3.35 (adult) with a Presto card ($3.35 vs higher cash fare).
How to Pay
Payment methods: Presto card · Contactless Visa/Mastercard · Apple Pay · Google Pay · Cash (exact fare, buses only).
💡 Load a Presto card or tap your contactless bank card directly at TTC fare gates. The fare is $3.35 per trip, same whether you use Presto, contactless, or mobile. Cash is accepted on TTC buses (exact change only) but not on subway gates.
Peak hours: No peak fare surcharge — flat $3.35 fare at all times (adult) — fares are higher during these times. Travel off-peak where possible to save money.
Toronto Subway Lines
Key Stations on the Toronto Subway
Ticket Prices
Payment methods: Presto card, Contactless Visa/Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Cash (exact fare, buses only).
💡 Load a Presto card or tap your contactless bank card directly at TTC fare gates. The fare is $3.35 per trip, same whether you use Presto, contactless, or mobile. Cash is accepted on TTC buses (exact change only) but not on subway gates.
| Journey | Off-Peak (CAD) | Peak (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult fare (Presto/contactless) | $3.35 | $3.35 |
| Adult fare (cash bus only) | $3.35 | $3.35 |
| Day Pass (unlimited, one person) | $13.50 | $13.50 |
| UP Express (Union to Pearson) | $12.35 | $12.35 |
| UP Express (with Presto) | $9.27 | $9.27 |
| Monthly Pass | $156.00 | $156.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Pearson Airport (YYZ) to downtown Toronto?
Take the UP Express (Union Pearson Express) from the airport terminal to Union Station — 25 minutes, $12.35 ($9.27 with Presto card). From Union Station connect to Lines 1 and 2 for the rest of the city. Taxis and ride-share cost $50–$75.
What is the Presto card?
Presto is a rechargeable contactless smart card that works on TTC, GO Transit, York Region Transit, Brampton, Mississauga, and other regional systems — one card for all transit in greater Toronto. Load at TTC machines or online at prestocard.ca. $6 card fee.
Can I use my bank card or phone on the TTC?
Yes — contactless Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay all work at TTC subway and streetcar fare gates. The same $3.35 fare is charged. On buses, use Presto or exact cash — contactless is not always available at bus fareboxes.
Is there a day pass for Toronto?
Yes — TTC Day Pass ($13.50) gives unlimited subway, streetcar, and bus rides for the calendar day. Available at TTC subway station ticket machines. Worth it if you take 4+ trips. Note: does not cover the UP Express.
What time does the Toronto Subway run?
Monday–Saturday: 06:00–01:30. Sunday: 09:00–01:30. TTC Night Bus services (300-series routes) run after subway hours. There is no 24-hour subway service.
Which subway stop is closest to the CN Tower?
Union Station (Lines 1 and 2) is the closest — exit towards Front Street and the CN Tower is a 15-minute walk west, or take the 509/510 streetcar to Rees Street. The CN Tower is near Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena.
Does the TTC subway go to Niagara Falls?
No — the TTC subway only covers Toronto. For Niagara Falls, take GO Train to Niagara Falls station (seasonal service from Union Station) or a tour bus. The trip from Toronto takes about 2 hours each way by car or bus.
Is the Scarborough RT still operating?
No — Line 3 (Scarborough RT) was permanently closed in November 2023 after over 35 years of service. The Scarborough Subway Extension (Line 2 east extension) is under construction. Bus replacement routes cover the former RT corridor until the extension opens.
Source: Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and Wikipedia. Always verify fares with the official operator.