Buzz
Whether you're visiting as a tourist or commuting as a local, Toronto's public transit system is quick and simple to navigate. With various trip planning tools available and numerous fare options tailored to both frequent and occasional riders, it's easy to get around. After planning your journey and paying your fare, head to the platform and wait for the next train. Trains typically arrive every two to five minutes, so you'll be on your way in no time.
Steps
Planning Your Journey
Utilize the TTC trip planner. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provides a convenient trip planner on its website. Just input your starting location and destination, then choose your preferred departure or arrival time. The tool will guide you on which train to take and when to board for the best fit with your schedule.
- Find the trip planner here: https://www.ttc.ca/routes-and-schedules.
Get an interactive map. Having a subway map can give you a clear understanding of the system’s layout, helping you avoid missing any stops. If you don't have a mobile device, you can always request a physical copy from the operator at any station’s collector booth.
- The digital map also includes valuable information, such as whether a station has parking or is accessible for people with disabilities.
- Access the interactive map and additional details about the TTC's four lines and stations on the TTC subway page.
Install the TTC transit app for up-to-date scheduling info. Available on both the App Store and Google Play, the TTC app not only provides a map and trip planning tools, but it also offers real-time updates on train arrivals and departures.
- During rush hours, trains typically arrive every two minutes, and every five minutes at other times. The app allows you to check when the next train is due and see if there are any disruptions affecting your route.
Monitor social media for service notifications. Keeping an eye on social media can save you from arriving at a station only to find out there’s a delay. Check the TTC's Twitter account (https://twitter.com/TTCnotices) or Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/TorontoTransitCommission) for the latest updates and news.
Verify if your station offers parking. If you're planning to drive to a subway station, park your car, and then continue your journey by train, make sure to check the TTC website to see if there’s a parking lot at the station.
- Parking at stations generally costs between $4 and $7 (CAD) on weekdays. It’s free on weekends and holidays. You can pay with coins, credit or debit cards, or via a mobile payment app available on the App Store or Google Play.
Purchasing Tickets, Tokens, and Passes
Head to a station’s staffed booth to buy any fare type. Each subway station has a staffed booth where you can purchase one-way tickets, tokens, or passes. You can pay with both cash and credit or debit cards at these booths, though automated kiosks typically accept only cash or credit.
- There is a $10 minimum for credit and debit card transactions at the collector booths.
- You can also ask the operator for a subway map or directions.
Buy tokens in bulk to save some money. A single one-way ticket costs $3.25, but if you buy tokens, the price drops to $3 per trip. While you must buy at least three tokens, it’s worth it if you plan to take multiple trips.
- You can purchase tokens at the collector booths or at token vending machines located at most stations. Note that token machines accept only cash.
Get passes from vending machines at certain stations. An adult weekly pass, priced at $43.75, can be more economical than buying individual tickets or tokens if you’re taking at least two trips a day. Similarly, the monthly pass costs $146.25. Passes are available at both collector booths and automated vending machines at select stations.
- If there’s a long wait at the booth, using an automated vending machine might be a faster option. These machines accept only credit or debit cards.
Find tickets, tokens, and passes at an Authorized TTC Fare Seller. If you’re not at a TTC station, you can avoid the crowds and purchase your tickets, tokens, or passes ahead of time. There are over 1,200 Authorized TTC Fare Sellers in the greater Toronto area.
- These locations include gas stations and convenience stores. Use the TTC website’s search tool to find a nearby seller.
Get a PRESTO card if you’re a frequent rider. Launched in 2017, the PRESTO card is a reloadable smart card with a mobile payment system. For $6, it’s a cost-effective option for frequent commuters but less suitable for occasional riders.
- Visit the PRESTO website to order your card, register your account, and top up your balance: https://www.prestocard.ca/en/.
Obtain your student or senior ID at Sherbourne Station. Seniors and students enjoy discounted fares for all types of travel but must present a valid TTC Photo ID. To get your ID, head to the Sherbourne Station Photo ID Centre where your photo will be taken. Once your ID is processed, it will be mailed to you, and you’ll be eligible for discounted fares thereafter.
Boarding Your Train
Pay your fare and pass through the turnstile. To pay your fare, insert your ticket or token, or tap your PRESTO card. After payment, go through the turnstile, following the signs to the correct train line and direction. Once you’ve oriented yourself, head to the platform and wait for your train to arrive.
- Many stations serve multiple lines, so stay alert to the signs. For example, if you’re at Bloor-Yonge and need to take Line 1 Northbound, don’t mistakenly board Line 2 Eastbound.
Collect a transfer once you’ve paid your fare. If your trip requires a transfer from the subway to a bus or streetcar, look for a red machine after you’ve paid and passed through the turnstile. It will print out a free paper transfer for you to show to the bus or streetcar driver.
- If you're transferring from a bus or streetcar to the subway, ask the driver for a transfer.
- Transfers are generally valid only at intersecting routes, but there are exceptions where you can transfer for free even when two routes don’t directly intersect. You can find a full list of these transfer points on the TTC website.
Wait for passengers to exit before boarding the train. While on the platform, stand behind the yellow line until the train arrives and stops completely. When the doors open, let passengers disembark before you board. Be mindful of the small gap between the platform and the train and watch your step as you enter.
Pay attention to the automated stop announcements. Each train car displays a map, or you can follow along with your printed or digital map. The automated announcements will help ensure you get off at the right station.
Exit the train and follow signs to your next destination. When you reach your stop, follow the signs to the exit, a bus or streetcar transfer, or to catch the next subway line.
- For example, you may need to transfer from Line 1 Yonge-University Southbound to Line 2 Bloor-Danforth Eastbound at St. George Station.
- Look out for metal plaques near exits that show compass directions and nearby street names to help you navigate.
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Check out a detailed collection of insider tips on efficiency and etiquette here: https://ttcrider.ca/tips.php.
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Bicycles are prohibited on subway trains during peak hours, which are from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
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Pets on leashes or contained in carriers are allowed during off-peak hours only. Service animals may travel with their owners at any time.
