Toronto, Canada’s largest and most multicultural city, offers a wealth of attractions—from towering skyscrapers and world-class museums to bustling markets and scenic waterfronts. For visitors, getting around can seem overwhelming at first, but thankfully, Toronto’s public transit system is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to explore the city.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking to navigate like a local, this guide provides essential tips for exploring Toronto by public transit. Learn how to use the system, save money, and reach major attractions smoothly.
Why Choose Public Transit in Toronto?
Toronto’s public transit system, operated primarily by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), is an extensive network of subways, streetcars, and buses. Public transportation is often faster than driving in Toronto’s dense downtown core and helps avoid the hassle of expensive parking and traffic congestion.
Using public transit is also budget-friendly and environmentally sustainable—making it an ideal choice for visitors who want to explore the city efficiently.
Understanding the TTC System
The TTC includes:
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4 Subway Lines: Fast and reliable for longer-distance travel.
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Streetcars: Great for short trips, especially in downtown neighborhoods.
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Buses: Cover areas that subways and streetcars don’t reach.
Subway Lines Overview:
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Line 1 (Yonge-University) – U-shaped and connects downtown with the northern neighborhoods.
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Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) – Runs east-west across the city.
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Line 3 (Scarborough) – Serves the eastern suburbs (note: this line is being phased out for new development).
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Line 4 (Sheppard) – A short route running along Sheppard Avenue East.
The subway system operates from 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 1:30 AM on Sundays.
How to Pay for Public Transit
Toronto’s transit uses a tap-and-go system via PRESTO cards, but you can also pay by cash, tokens, or via mobile apps.
Payment Options:
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PRESTO Card: Best option for frequent travel. Load funds and tap at gates or onboard.
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Single Fare: $3.35 CAD (as of 2025) using PRESTO or $3.75 CAD with cash.
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Day Pass: Great for unlimited travel in a day. Around $13.50 CAD.
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Children (under 12): Ride free.
You can purchase PRESTO cards at subway stations, online, or participating retailers.
Tips for Navigating the Transit System
1. Download Transit Apps
Apps like Transit App, RocketMan, and Citymapper are great tools to check schedules, plan routes, and get real-time updates on delays.
2. Know Your Transfers
If you pay your fare with a PRESTO card, you get two hours of unlimited travel in any direction. This is perfect for tourists who want to hop off and explore different areas without paying multiple fares.
3. Avoid Rush Hour
Toronto’s transit can get crowded during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) on weekdays. If possible, plan your sightseeing for mid-morning or early afternoon.
4. Use the Subway for Major Attractions
Many top attractions are near subway stations:
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CN Tower & Rogers Centre: Union Station (Line 1)
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Royal Ontario Museum: Museum Station (Line 1)
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Toronto Zoo: Bus from Kennedy Station (Line 2)
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St. Lawrence Market: King Station (Line 1)
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High Park: High Park Station (Line 2)
Exploring Neighborhoods by Transit
1. Downtown Core
Use streetcars like the 504 King and 501 Queen to explore the Financial District, Entertainment District, and shopping areas.
2. The Annex & Yorkville
Accessible via Line 1, these neighborhoods offer trendy cafes, art galleries, and the University of Toronto campus.
3. Distillery District
Hop on the 504 King streetcar and get off at Parliament Street. Walk a few blocks south to reach this historic area with art studios and charming boutiques.
4. Greektown on the Danforth
Take Line 2 and stop at Chester or Pape Station. This lively area offers Mediterranean cuisine and local shops.
5. Harbourfront & Toronto Islands
From Union Station, walk or take the 509/510 streetcar to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, where you can catch a ferry to Toronto Islands.
Safety and Etiquette
Toronto’s transit system is considered safe, but it’s important to follow basic etiquette and safety tips:
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Stand on the right side of escalators; walk on the left.
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Offer your seat to seniors or individuals with disabilities.
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Keep backpacks off during peak times.
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Avoid eating or drinking on subways and buses.
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Always be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Accessibility on the TTC
The TTC has been gradually improving accessibility across its network:
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Many subway stations have elevators, tactile strips, and automatic doors.
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Buses are fully accessible with ramps and kneeling features.
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Streetcars are being replaced with modern low-floor models.
If you have specific needs, check the TTC accessibility page or use the app for station status before heading out.
GO Transit for Day Trips
If you’re planning a day trip outside Toronto, consider GO Transit—a regional system connecting the Greater Toronto Area.
Destinations include:
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Niagara Falls
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Hamilton
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Barrie
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Pickering
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Oshawa
You can catch GO Trains or Buses from Union Station, and they accept PRESTO cards too.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Toronto by public transit is not only easy but also one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the city like a local. With a little planning, a PRESTO card, and the right transit app, you can seamlessly travel to major attractions, neighborhoods, and hidden gems across the city.
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