The Toronto Transit Commission, or TTC, is the backbone of getting around Toronto. Subways, streetcars and buses move millions of riders every week. If you are new to the city, visiting, or just used to driving, this guide explains how the system works, how to pay, and the habits that make every trip smoother.
The TTC runs three types of service inside the City of Toronto:
Outside the city, other agencies take over: GO Transit for regional trains and buses, and local systems in places like Mississauga, Brampton, York Region and Durham Region.
Shaped like a “U”, Line 1 runs north from Union Station along Yonge Street and up the University–Spadina corridor into Vaughan. It is the busiest line and serves downtown, Midtown and North York.
Line 2 runs east to west across the city, mainly under Bloor Street and Danforth Avenue, from Kipling to Kennedy. It meets Line 1 at St George, Bloor–Yonge and Spadina.
A short line in North York connecting Sheppard–Yonge with Don Mills.
Toronto’s network is growing, with new light rail lines and extensions under construction or recently opened. The former Line 3 Scarborough RT closed in 2023 and is being replaced by a subway extension. For the status of the Eglinton line, read our guide to Line 5 Eglinton Crosstown.
PRESTO is the electronic fare card used across the TTC and other GTA transit systems. You load money onto it and tap on a reader when you board or enter a station. PRESTO cards are sold at many subway stations, Shoppers Drug Mart locations and online.
You can also tap a contactless credit or debit card, or a phone or watch with a mobile wallet, on PRESTO readers. Use the same card or device every time you tap during a trip so transfers apply correctly.
TTC fares include a two-hour transfer window when you pay with PRESTO or contactless payment. That means you can usually change between vehicles and directions within two hours without paying again. Rules can change, so check the TTC’s fare information if you are unsure.
Children 12 and under ride the TTC free. Discounted fares exist for youth, post-secondary students, seniors and eligible low-income residents.
When the subway closes for the night, the Blue Night Network takes over. These overnight buses and streetcars run along major routes, generally following subway lines and main streets, so most of the city stays connected around the clock.
The TTC has made most of its stations and vehicles accessible, with elevators, ramps and priority seating. For riders who cannot use conventional transit, Wheel-Trans provides a door-to-door accessible service. Always check elevator status before you travel, since outages can affect your route.
Union Station is the main hub connecting the TTC subway to GO Transit trains and buses and to the UP Express, the train to Toronto Pearson International Airport. GO Transit is ideal for trips to Hamilton, Oshawa, Barrie and other GTA cities, and for planning day trips from Toronto without a car.
Fares are set by the TTC and updated periodically, so check its website for current prices. Frequent riders can save with monthly passes, and the PRESTO system can apply fare caps or discounts depending on the program. For a full monthly budget that includes transit, rent and groceries, see our guide to the cost of living in Toronto.
The TTC is busy and generally safe, but use common sense: keep valuables close, stay behind the yellow line on platforms and use the designated waiting areas, which have intercoms and cameras, late at night. Each subway car has a passenger alarm strip for emergencies.
Cash is still accepted on some vehicles, but PRESTO and contactless payment are the easiest options and give you the two-hour transfer automatically.
The subway closes overnight, but the Blue Night Network provides overnight buses and streetcars on major routes.
Yes. The same PRESTO card works on the TTC, GO Transit and most other GTA transit agencies.
No. Children 12 and under ride free.
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