If you’re flying into Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) and need to get to Union Station downtown, you have lots of choices. Some are fast, some are cheap, and some are super easy. Let’s go over the best ways to make your trip smooth!

UP Express – Fast and Easy

What is it?

The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is a train that goes straight from the airport to Union Station. It’s the fastest way to get downtown.

Details:

  • Time: About 25 minutes
  • How often? Every 15 minutes
  • Cost:
    • One-way ticket: $12.35 CAD
    • Kids under 12: FREE!
  • Where to catch it?
    • If you’re in Terminal 1, follow the signs to the UP Express station.
    • If you’re in Terminal 3, take the free airport train to Terminal 1.

Pros:

  • Super fast! No traffic, no waiting.
  • Easy to find. Just follow the signs.
  • Free Wi-Fi on board!

Cons:

  • Costs more than a bus
  • Doesn’t run late at night

TTC Bus & Subway – Budget Option

What is it?

The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) has buses and subways that take you downtown for cheap!

How to get there:

  1. Take the 900 Airport Express Bus from Pearson Airport to Kipling Station.
  2. Hop on the Subway (Line 2) and go to St. George Station.
  3. Switch to Line 1 and ride to Union Station.

Details:

  • Time: 45-60 minutes (depends on traffic)
  • Cost: $3.35 CAD
  • Runs: Almost all day, but subway closes at night.

Pros:

  • Super cheap!
  • Runs all day, so you don’t have to wait too long.
  • Great if you don’t have lots of luggage.

Cons:

  • Takes longer than the train.
  • You have to switch from bus to subway.

Taxi or Uber – Super Convenient

What is it?

Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft take you straight to your hotel or home.

Details:

  • Time: 30-45 minutes (depends on traffic)
  • Cost:
    • Taxi: About $50-$60 CAD
    • Uber/Lyft: About $40-$70 CAD, but prices change based on demand
  • Where to find them?
    • Taxis are right outside the airport.
    • For Uber/Lyft, order through the app and follow pickup signs.

Pros:

  • No walking! They pick you up right at the airport.
  • Great if you have luggage.
  • Easy for families or groups.

Cons:

  • Costs more than the train or bus.
  • Traffic can be bad, making it slower.

Airport Shuttle – Pre-Booked Rides

What is it?

Shuttle buses take passengers from the airport to Union Station or hotels downtown.

Details:

  • Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Cost: $20-$30 CAD per person
  • Where to book?
    • Online before your trip
    • At airport kiosks

Pros:

  • Cheaper than a taxi if you’re traveling alone.
  • Comfortable with lots of space.
  • No need to carry bags far.

Cons:

  • Slower than UP Express because of multiple stops.
  • You have to book ahead.

Rent a Car – For Longer Trips

What is it?

If you want to explore more than just downtown, renting a car is a good idea.

Details:

  • Time: 30-45 minutes to Union Station
  • Cost: $30-$50 CAD per day (plus gas & parking)
  • Where to rent?
    • Inside Terminals 1 and 3 parking garages.

Pros:

  • Freedom to go anywhere.
  • Good if you’re visiting places outside the city.
  • Lots of rental companies to choose from.

Cons:

  • Parking in Toronto is expensive!
  • Traffic can make the drive longer.

What’s the Best Option for You?

OptionBest ForTimeCost
UP ExpressFast & easy25 min$12.35 CAD
TTC Bus/SubwayCheapest45-60 min$3.35 CAD
Taxi/UberMost convenient30-45 min$50-$70 CAD
ShuttleNo hassle45-60 min$20-$30 CAD
Car RentalExploring more30-45 min$30+ CAD per day

Final Thoughts

Getting from Toronto Pearson Airport to Union Station is super easy once you know your options. If you want speed, go for the UP Express. If you want to save money, take the TTC. If you want comfort, grab a taxi or Uber. Whatever you pick, Toronto’s got you covered!

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