How to Get to YYZ from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to YYZ from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

To get from Union Station to Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) in 2025–2026: take UP Express (25 mins, CAD $12.35), taxi/Uber (30–45 mins, CAD $55–75), or TTC subway + bus (70–80 mins, CAD $3.30).

Traveling from Union Station in downtown Toronto to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is easy, with several options depending on your budget, time, and comfort.

Here’s your 2025–2026 step-by-step guide with costs, travel times, and the best routes.

🚆 Option 1: UP Express (Best Overall)

The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is the fastest and most reliable way to get from Union Station to YYZ.

  • Route: Union Station → Toronto Pearson Airport Terminal 1.

  • Travel Time: 25 minutes.

  • Cost: CAD $12.35 (adult, PRESTO or online); CAD $6.20 (child 6–12); under 6 free.

  • Frequency: Every 15 minutes, from 5:30 AM – 1:00 AM.

  • Convenience: Direct train with luggage space and Wi-Fi.

👉 If you’re catching a flight, this is the safest option to avoid traffic delays.

🚖 Option 2: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Private rides are widely available from Union Station.

  • Travel Time: 30–45 minutes (longer in rush hour).

  • Cost: CAD $55–75.

  • Best For: Families, groups, or those with lots of luggage.

  • Drop-Off: Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

🚇 Option 3: TTC Subway + Bus (Cheapest)

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) offers a budget-friendly way to reach Pearson.

  • Route: Union Station → Line 1 Subway (northbound) → Kipling Station → 900 Airport Express Bus → YYZ.

  • Travel Time: 70–80 minutes.

  • Cost: CAD $3.30 with PRESTO.

  • Frequency: Subway every 5 mins, bus every 10–15 mins.

👉 Cheapest way, but less comfortable with large luggage.

🚌 Option 4: GO Transit (Alternative)

GO buses connect downtown to Pearson.

  • Route: Union Station Bus Terminal → GO Bus 40 → Pearson Airport (Terminals 1 & 3).

  • Travel Time: 45–60 minutes.

  • Cost: CAD $6–8 with PRESTO.

  • Frequency: Every 30 minutes, 24/7.

🚗 Option 5: Driving Yourself

  • Travel Time: 25–40 minutes.

  • Parking: CAD $20–35/day (short-term); CAD $150–200/week (long-term).

  • Best For: Extended trips with long-term parking deals.

🌤️ Best Time to Travel

  • Early Morning (5–7 AM): Fastest, minimal traffic.

  • Rush Hour (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM): Expect delays by car or Uber—train is best.

  • Late Night: GO Bus and taxis run; UP Express runs until 1 AM.

💡 Travel Tips

  • Buy UP Express tickets online or with PRESTO for discounts.

  • If traveling with luggage, avoid TTC subway + bus unless on a budget.

  • Families may find Uber cheaper than buying 3–4 UP Express tickets.

  • Always allow extra buffer time before international flights.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Route Time Cost Notes
🚆 UP Express Union → YYZ 25 mins CAD $12.35 Fastest, reliable, direct
🚖 Taxi/Uber Union → YYZ 30–45 mins CAD $55–75 Best with luggage/groups
🚇 TTC Union → Kipling → Bus 900 → YYZ 70–80 mins CAD $3.30 Cheapest option
🚌 GO Bus Union Bus Terminal → YYZ 45–60 mins CAD $6–8 24/7 service
🚗 Driving Union → YYZ 25–40 mins Parking CAD $20–35/day Best for long trips

❓ FAQs: How to Get to YYZ from Union Station

1. What is the fastest way to get to Pearson Airport from Union Station?
The UP Express train—25 minutes, no traffic delays.

2. How much is the UP Express in 2025?
CAD $12.35 (adult one-way with PRESTO), CAD $6.20 for kids 6–12, under 6 free.

3. Is Uber cheaper than the UP Express?
For solo travelers, UP Express is cheaper. For 3–4 people with luggage, Uber can be more cost-effective.

4. How late does the UP Express run?
Until about 1:00 AM daily, with trains every 15 minutes.

5. Can I take the TTC subway to Pearson?
Yes: Union → Line 1 Subway → Kipling → Bus 900. Total ~70–80 mins, CAD $3.30.

6. Does GO Transit go to Pearson?
Yes, GO Bus Route 40 runs 24/7 between Union Station and Pearson.

7. How far is Pearson from Union Station?
About 27 km (17 miles).

8. What’s the cheapest way to get from Union Station to YYZ?
The TTC subway + Airport Express bus at CAD $3.30.

✅ With this 2025–2026 guide, you now know the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient ways to travel from Union Station to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).

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