There are four practical ways to get from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to downtown Toronto. The right one depends on your luggage, your group size and where downtown you are going.
Option 1: UP Express train
The UP Express station is in Terminal 1, next to the Terminal Link Train. If you land at Terminal 3, take the free Terminal Link Train to Terminal 1 first. Trains run every 15 minutes and reach Union Station in about 28 minutes. The adult PRESTO fare is $9.25.
Best for: solo travellers with light luggage staying near Union Station.
Option 2: TTC 900 Airport Express bus
The TTC 900 Airport Express runs between Terminal 1 (Ground Level), Terminal 3 (Arrivals Level) and Kipling subway station in about 20–25 minutes. From Kipling you continue downtown on Line 2. The airport stops are inside the Toronto fare zone, so one TTC fare covers the trip.
Best for: the lowest cost when you have time and little luggage.
Option 3: Pre-booked flat-rate car
A pre-booked sedan, SUV or van takes you door to door. Your price is fixed when you book: a booking fee plus a per-km rate (sedan $15 + $1.45/km). Pearson to Union Station works out to about $55 + HST. Your driver tracks your flight and meets you at arrivals; pre-arranged pickups at Pearson use Door A at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
Best for: families, groups of 3+, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals and hotels away from Union.
Option 4: Taxi line or rideshare
Airport taxis wait at the arrivals level, and rideshare apps also operate at Pearson. You do not need to book ahead, but the price is not locked in advance the same way and you may wait in line at busy times.
Side-by-side comparison
| Option | Cost | Time to downtown | Door to door |
|---|---|---|---|
| UP Express | $9.25 per adult | ~28 min to Union | No |
| TTC 900 + subway | 1 TTC fare | 20–25 min to Kipling, then subway | No |
| Flat-rate sedan | ~$55 + HST per car | ~25–40 min, traffic dependent | Yes |
| Taxi line / rideshare | Varies | Traffic dependent | Yes |
FAQ
What is the cheapest way from Pearson to downtown Toronto?
The TTC 900 Airport Express bus to Kipling station, then the subway, for a single TTC fare.
How long is the UP Express from Pearson to Union?
About 28 minutes, with trains every 15 minutes from Terminal 1.
How much is a car from Pearson to Union Station?
A pre-booked flat-rate sedan is about $55 + HST, based on our calculator rates. Your exact price is shown when you book.
Is a car cheaper than the train for a group?
Often yes. For 3 people the UP Express is about $27.75 total, while a sedan is about $55 + HST to Union and goes door to door.