To get around in Ontario, you can use a variety of transportation options, including international and domestic flights, an extensive rail network, buses, and cars, as well as city-specific public transit systems, such as subways, buses, and taxis.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Ontario has several major international airports, with Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) being the largest and busiest, offering direct flights to numerous destinations around the world, including major hubs in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) is another significant airport, providing connections to various cities in Canada and the United States. If you're traveling overland, you can enter Ontario from the United States via several border crossings, including the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, which connect to the state of Michigan, or from other Canadian provinces, such as Quebec and Manitoba.
In addition to air travel, Ontario is also accessible by bus and train from other parts of Canada and the United States. VIA Rail and Amtrak offer train services, while bus companies like Greyhound and Megabus provide connections to various cities in North America. If you're driving, you can enter Ontario from the United States via Interstate 75 or 81, or from other Canadian provinces via the Trans-Canada Highway.
Domestic Flights
For domestic travel within Ontario, you can fly with airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines, which offer frequent flights between major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Thunder Bay. The main routes include flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport and other cities in Ontario, such as Ottawa, London, and Sudbury. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices and schedules across different airlines to find the best option for your needs. Approximate costs for domestic flights within Ontario can range from $200 to $500 CAD, depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Ontario has an extensive rail network, with VIA Rail being the primary passenger rail service provider. The rail network connects major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Windsor, with frequent departures and comfortable onboard amenities. Key routes include the Corridor service, which runs between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, and the Canadian, which travels from Toronto to Vancouver. You can book tickets online or at train stations, and prices vary depending on the route and class of service. Ontario also has a few high-speed rail options, including the UP Express, which connects Toronto Pearson International Airport to downtown Toronto.
Buses & Coaches
For intercity bus travel in Ontario, companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and Ontario Northland offer frequent services between major cities. The quality of buses and coaches is generally good, with comfortable seating and onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms. Routes cover most parts of the province, including rural areas, and prices are often competitive with train travel. A one-way ticket can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 CAD, depending on the route and time of year.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Toronto, Ottawa | $3-$4 | Tokens or Presto cards can be used |
| City Bus | Most cities | $2-$3 | Cash or transit cards accepted |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2-$5/km | Metered fares, tips expected |
| Ride-Hailing | Major cities | $10-$20 | Uber and Lyft available |
| Bike-Share | Toronto, Ottawa | $3-$5 | Hourly or daily rentals available |
Driving
- To drive in Ontario, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or province, and car insurance that covers you in Canada.
- Road conditions in Ontario are generally good, with well-maintained highways and urban roads, but winter driving can be challenging due to snow and ice.
- Fuel costs in Ontario are around $1.20 CAD per liter, which is approximately $4.50 USD per gallon.
- Car rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis have locations at major airports and cities, and prices start from around $40 CAD per day.
- When driving in Ontario, be aware of hazards like wildlife on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk, and construction delays on highways.
- It's also important to be aware of Ontario's driving laws, including speed limits, seatbelt requirements, and rules for using electronic devices while driving.
Transport Tips
- When using public transportation, consider purchasing a Presto card, which can be used on buses, subways, and trains throughout Ontario.
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists, such as fake taxi drivers or overpriced tour operators.
- Download the Transit app to plan your route and track public transportation in real-time.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and medical emergencies.
- When driving, use a GPS or mapping app to navigate Ontario's roads, and be aware of road closures and construction.
- In winter, consider renting a car with winter tires or four-wheel drive to handle snowy and icy roads.
- When using ride-hailing apps, always check the driver's rating and license plate before getting in the car.