Buzz
Toronto International Airport, commonly referred to as Toronto Pearson or Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ), is renowned as Canada's busiest airport. It handles a vast number of domestic and international flights daily. If you're planning a trip to or from Toronto Airport, make sure to explore this informative article by Mytour, filled with valuable and engaging insights.
Location of Toronto International Airport
The airport is named after Canada's 14th Prime Minister, Lester B. Pearson. It is located approximately 22.5 kilometers northwest of downtown Toronto.
Terminals at Toronto Airport
Currently, Toronto Pearson International Airport operates with two terminals:
- Terminal 1 - International Terminal: This terminal handles all international, transit, and domestic flights with 58 gates. It is also the hub for Air Canada and other Star Alliance member airlines. Key airlines operating here include Air India, Air New Zealand, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, BMI, Continental Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Jet Airways, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Sunwing Airlines, Swiss Airlines, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways.
- Terminal 3: A smaller terminal with 39 gates, primarily serving flights from Skyteam and Oneworld member airlines. Airlines operating here include Air France, Air Transat, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta, EL AL, Finnair, Japan Airlines, KLM, Korean Air, Qantas, Thomas Cook Airlines, Virgin America, and WestJet.
How to Move Between Terminals at Toronto Airport?
To travel between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, passengers can use the airport's complimentary LINK train service, available 24/7. The LINK train pick-up points are located on the second level of each terminal.
The LINK train also shuttles passengers between the terminals, Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Viscount Station, and other stops such as Value Park Lot, Value Park Garage, and ALT Hotel. The LINK train is wheelchair accessible.
Traveling to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport
Traveling from the airport to downtown Toronto takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the destination. Passengers can choose from public transportation, airport shuttle buses, taxis, limousines, or car rentals based on their preferences.
Airport Buses to Downtown
- One of the most popular transportation options among tourists and Canadians alike is the bus. Bus routes connecting Toronto International Airport and the city center operate throughout the day, starting early in the morning and ending around 1-3 AM to make way for night bus services.
- Alternatively, you can opt for the 192 Airport Rocket express bus service, which operates all day between the airport and Kipling Station, connecting to the Bloor-Danforth subway line. From Kipling Station, you can take the subway to reach downtown Toronto.
- The 58A Malton bus route provides service between the airport and Lawrence West Station, which connects to the Spadina subway line.
- The 300A Bloor-Danforth night bus runs from Toronto Airport to the Bloor-Danforth Corridor, while the 307 Eglinton West night bus travels from the airport to Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue.
- You can also utilize the TTC system (subway, buses, and streetcars). TTC services are available at all bus stops, streetcar stops, and subway stations. To travel using TTC, you’ll need a MetroPass, which allows unlimited rides on any TTC route for the day. Alternatively, you can pay $3 per trip. Details include:
Subway
Subways are easily accessible at all designated stations. In Toronto, the four main subway lines are Yonge-University-Spadina, Bloor-Danforth, Scarborough RT, and Sheppard.
The subway can accommodate over 500 passengers. Trains arrive every 5 minutes and operate from 6 AM to 1:30 AM the following day. On Sundays, service begins at 9 AM.
Buses
Toronto Airport is served by over 300 bus routes daily. Each bus can carry 40-50 passengers and operates from 6 AM to 1:30 AM, with Sunday services starting at 9 AM.
Streetcars
There are 11 streetcar routes operating in the city center, running on tracks located in the middle of the road. Streetcars follow the same operating hours as buses.
Toronto Airport Express / Downtown Express
Toronto Airport Express, Downtown Express, or Pacific Western Airport Express offers a convenient and affordable bus service, shuttling passengers between Toronto Pearson Airport and various downtown locations. Buses depart every 20-30 minutes on average.
This service also transports passengers from Terminals 1 and 3 to select hotels in downtown Toronto. Enjoy amenities such as free WiFi, laptop charging ports, seatbelts, and leather seating. Tickets cost approximately $17 one-way, with a 10% discount available for online purchases. There are no baggage restrictions, allowing you to bring as much luggage as needed.
Taxis and Limousines
If public transportation isn’t your preference, you can opt for Toronto Airport taxis or limousines, known for their high quality. Fares are predetermined based on travel time and distance to your chosen destination within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). For destinations outside the GTA, rates are $1.45 per kilometer for taxis and $1.55 per kilometer for limousines.
Car Rentals
Toronto Airport hosts numerous car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo, and Dollar. Rental counters are conveniently located within the airport terminals for passenger ease.
Facilities at Toronto Airport
Currency Exchange / ATMs
At Toronto International Airport, currency exchange counters and ATMs are conveniently located throughout the terminals.
WiFi / Internet
Toronto International Airport is one of the few airports offering free WiFi access throughout all its areas.
Dining and Shopping
Throughout the airport, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants and bars offering diverse cuisines to suit your taste. Notably, Toronto Airport is renowned for its affordable dining options. Some recommended spots include Heirloom Bakery Cafe, Burger Burger Bar, and Trillium Bar.
If you’re looking to shop, the airport offers numerous options. You’ll find bookstores, accessory shops, souvenir stores, and duty-free outlets at Toronto Airport.
Sleeping at the Airport / Booking Airport Hotels
If you plan to sleep at the airport, you can find designated rest areas in Terminal 1. Don’t forget to bring a blanket to stay warm.
However, for a more comfortable and uninterrupted sleep, consider booking a nearby airport hotel. Several hotels are conveniently located close to the airport and offer complimentary shuttle services.
- Sheraton Gateway Hotel: Located directly at the airport, near Terminal 3.
- ALT Hotel Toronto Pearson: Located about a 4-minute drive from the airport, featuring modern interiors and affordable rates.
- Four Points by Sheraton Toronto Airport: Situated adjacent to Terminal 3.
- Comfort Inn Toronto Airport: Just a 5-minute drive from the airport, though it does not offer airport shuttle services.
- Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Toronto Airport: Located about a 5-minute drive from the airport. Offers a complimentary 24/7 shuttle service, with departures every 30 minutes.
Luggage Services
Toronto Airport provides luggage transportation and storage services at both terminals. Additionally, the airport offers winter clothing storage for passengers traveling to warmer destinations.
Parking Facilities
Toronto International Airport offers over 15,000 parking spaces, including both short-term and long-term options. Some parking areas are conveniently located near the terminals, while others are connected via the free LINK train service.
Airlines Operating at Toronto International Airport
Toronto International Airport serves as a hub for domestic Canadian flights and international airlines worldwide, including Air Canada, Air China, Air France, Air New Zealand, American Airlines, Avianca, EVA Air, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qantas, and Korean Air.
If you choose to fly with Vietnam Airlines, you will need to transit through a third airport before changing planes to reach Toronto. For flight ticket prices to Toronto (Canada), you can contact Mytour’s hotline at 1900 2083 for quick and efficient assistance.
We hope the valuable information provided by Mytour helps you better prepare for your upcoming trip to or from Toronto International Airport, ensuring a journey filled with excitement and meaningful experiences!
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 11:25 AM
