Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) Guide
Quick summary
Canada's busiest airport and a major Air Canada hub, with two terminals linked by a free automated train. The UP Express train whisks you downtown in under 30 minutes.
Terminals at YYZ
Toronto Pearson has two active terminals: Terminal 1 (Air Canada, Star Alliance, Emirates and most international carriers) and Terminal 3 (WestJet, oneworld, Delta, and various leisure airlines). The free, automated Terminal Link train runs 24/7 and connects T1, T3 and the Value Park Lot / Viscount station in a few minutes each way — the ride between terminals takes roughly 4–5 minutes, so allow extra time if your connecting flight departs from the other terminal. Both terminals have U.S. preclearance areas, so passengers flying to the United States clear U.S. customs and immigration in Toronto before boarding.
YYZ parking rates & options
| Garage (T1/T3) — daily maximum | About C$38–42 per day |
| Value Park Lot — per day | About C$24 per day |
| Express Park (T1) — premium daily | About C$55 per day |
| Hourly garage rate | About C$5 per half hour |
| Cell phone (waiting) lot | Free |
🚆 Getting to & from the airport
The fastest way downtown is the UP Express train from Terminal 1: it reaches Union Station in about 25–28 minutes with trains every 15 minutes. Fares are roughly C$12.35 one-way (about C$9.25 with a PRESTO card); kids under 12 ride free. The TTC 900 Airport Express bus links to the subway for a single transit fare, and GO Transit / regional buses serve nearby cities. Taxis and rideshare (Uber/Lyft) pick up on the arrivals level — expect roughly C$60–75 to downtown depending on traffic.
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🛋️ Lounges
Terminal 1 is the lounge-heavy terminal: Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges (plus the invitation-only Air Canada Signature Suite for international business class) and a Plaza Premium Lounge open to Priority Pass and pay-at-the-door guests. Terminal 3 has its own Plaza Premium Lounge and airline lounges. American Express also operates Centurion-style lounge access in T1 for eligible cardholders. Most independent lounges accept walk-ins for a fee if you're not a member.
📶 Wi-Fi
Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals — connect to the network and accept the terms. There is no time limit, so it's fine for long layovers.
😴 Layovers & overnight
For long or overnight layovers, Terminal 1 stays busy well into the night with dining and shops, while Terminal 3 is quieter for sleeping. Both terminals are largely airside-secure but comfortable seating without armrests is limited, so many travelers use a lounge or a hotel day-room. The Sheraton Gateway Hotel is connected directly to Terminal 3 by an indoor pedestrian bridge — ideal for a short overnight without leaving the airport. Remember that U.S.-bound passengers clear U.S. preclearance in Toronto, so arrive at least 3 hours early for U.S. flights.
Insider tips
- Take UP Express instead of a taxi to downtown — it's cheaper and beats rush-hour traffic.
- Tap a PRESTO card or contactless payment on UP Express to save a few dollars over the paper fare.
- Allow at least 90 minutes to connect between T1 and T3 via the free Terminal Link train.
- For U.S. flights, arrive 3 hours early to clear U.S. preclearance in Toronto.
- Use the free cell phone lot so pick-up drivers can wait without paying garage rates.
YYZ airport — FAQ
How do I get from Toronto Pearson to downtown Toronto?
The UP Express train from Terminal 1 reaches Union Station downtown in about 25–28 minutes, running every 15 minutes for roughly C$12.35 one-way (about C$9.25 with PRESTO). Taxis and rideshare run around C$60–75, and the TTC 900 bus connects to the subway for a single transit fare.
How much is parking at Toronto Pearson?
Daily garage parking in Terminal 1 or 3 runs about C$38–42 per day. The cheaper Value Park Lot is around C$24 per day with a free Terminal Link train to the terminals, and the cell phone waiting lot is free. Pre-booking online is usually cheaper than the drive-up rate.
How do I get between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 at Pearson?
Take the free, automated Terminal Link train, which runs 24/7 and connects T1, T3 and the Value Park Lot. The ride between the two terminals takes about 4–5 minutes; allow at least 90 minutes for a connection.
Is Wi-Fi free at Toronto Pearson?
Yes. Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals with no time limit — just connect and accept the terms.
Is there a hotel inside Toronto Pearson?
Yes. The Sheraton Gateway Hotel is connected directly to Terminal 3 by an indoor pedestrian bridge, making it the most convenient option for an overnight layover without leaving the airport.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with Toronto Pearson International Airport. Parking rates, terminal layouts, and transit options change often — always confirm on the airport's official website before you travel.