Getting Started on the Toronto Subway
The Toronto Subway is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Toronto. The network covers 75 stations across 4 lines and 77 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~1.0 million journeys are made every day.
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.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Presto Card — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. How to use the Presto card on TTC and UP Express — buying, loading, using on streetcars and buses, and tips for visitors to Toronto in 2026.
All payment options: 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).
Getting from the Airport to Toronto
UP Express connects Pearson Airport to Union Station in 25 minutes for $9.27 with Presto — the fastest and most reliable airport transfer in Toronto. Journey time: ~25 min to Union Station. Estimated fare: $12.35 (or $9.27 with Presto card).
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Toronto Subway for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Get a transit card — Presto Card Guide is faster and cheaper than single-use tickets.
- Always tap in and out — tap your card at both entry and exit barriers to correctly calculate the fare and avoid overpaying.
- Travel off-peak — No peak fare surcharge — flat $3.35 fare at all times (adult) are the busiest times. Fares may be lower off-peak.
- Download the official app — real-time service status, route planning, and fare information from Toronto Transit Commission.
- Check operating hours — verify first and last train times before late-evening travel.
- Airport connection — see the airport guide for the fastest and cheapest way to/from the airport.
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.
Fare Guide
See the full Toronto Subway ticket prices guide for all fares, the Presto Card Guide discount, and payment options.
Source: Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.