TTC Basics: Riding the Subway and Streetcars

The TTC is Toronto's transit system: two main subway lines that cross downtown, plus streetcars and buses that fill in everywhere else. One flat fare of $3.30 (tap a credit card, phone, or PRESTO) gets you a roughly two-hour window of unlimited transfers. Subway runs about 6am to 1:30am; streetcars are charming but slower than the subway in traffic.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to keep my transfer or proof of payment?

Yes. When you tap, the system tracks your two-hour transfer window automatically, but on streetcars and buses keep your card handy and, if you used a PRESTO ticket, hold onto the receipt as proof of payment. Fare inspectors do check on streetcars.

How much is a TTC fare?

A single adult fare is $3.30 when you tap a credit/debit card, phone, or PRESTO; cash is $3.35 on buses and streetcars. That fare buys about two hours of unlimited transfers across subway, streetcar, and bus, so one tap can cover a whole chain of trips.

How do the streetcars work?

You board streetcars at any door and tap your card or phone on the reader inside; there's no paying the driver on the newer cars. They run down major downtown streets like Queen, King, and Spadina. They're scenic but share the road, so they crawl in traffic, the subway is faster when it's an option.

Is there fare capping or a day pass?

Starting September 1, 2026, the TTC introduces monthly fare capping: once your taps add up to the cost of a monthly pass, the rest of that month is free. For short visits, capping likely won't kick in, so just tap per ride and don't overthink it.

How do I pay for the TTC?

Easiest option: tap a contactless credit or debit card or your phone right at the gate or reader. No need to buy anything in advance. PRESTO cards and tickets also work, and they're worth it only if you're riding a lot over several days.

How do I know which way to go on the subway?

Platforms are signed by the end-of-line station in each direction, so know your terminal (like Finch or Vaughan on Line 1). Use the TTC trip planner or a maps app for the exact platform. Staff and clear maps are at every station if you get turned around.

What are the subway lines?

Line 1 (Yonge-University) is the U-shaped one running north-south through downtown; Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) runs east-west. They cross at Bloor-Yonge and St. George, where you transfer. Two lines cover most of what visitors need; streetcars and buses handle the rest.

What time does the subway stop running?

The subway runs roughly 6am to 1:30am on weekdays and Saturdays, with a slightly later 8am start on Sundays and around a 1am close. After that, the Blue Night Network of buses and streetcars covers major routes about every 30 minutes until service restarts.