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As a travel journalist, I’ve been flying in and out of Toronto airports for decades, and on each trip there’s always a sense of excitement at exploring a new destination.
But first you have to get there, and this guide shares my personal experiences of flying in and out of both Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). Keep reading to determine which airport you should choose and the unique features of each one.
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
Toronto Pearson International Airportt is Toronto’s main airport and also the largest in Canada when it comes to passenger traffic. It has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
Over 40 airlines fly to more than 160 destinations around the world from YYZ, so pack your bags and get ready for adventure. It’s highly unlikely you’ll struggle to find a flight to here from wherever you’re flying from.
Location
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is located in Mississauga and is considered the main Toronto airport. It’s accessible from multiple directions and is about 15 miles (25 km) from the city centre. Bear in mind that traffic in Toronto can become quite busy, especially during rush hour, so allow extra time to get to the airport if you’re arriving by car.
There are a variety of parking options available, ranging from long-term car parks in both terminals to express parking in Terminal 1. If you’re being dropped off or picked up, you can load or offload curbside and there’s also a free waiting area for up to 45 minutes. I tend to use ridesharing apps for almost all my trips to YYZ, as I find them the most efficient.
How to get there
It’s easy to access YYZ, whether you choose the Union Pearson Express Train (which runs from city-centre Union Station to Pearson in 25 minutes), ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft, or public transport buses including TTC (Toronto), Go Transit, MiWay (Mississauga), or Brampton Transit.
Traditional cabs are also an option, or if you want to arrive in style, book a Toronto airport limousine. Remember to stay safe and only book licensed rides that charge you a flat rate upfront. Alternatively, you can hire a car based on your needs and drive yourself.
Shopping and dining
Got a layover at Pearson? There’s lots to do here and this Toronto airport is popular for connecting flights.
Whether you’re flying internationally, including to UK destinations, or domestic, you can spend time shopping for souvenirs or devouring a delicious meal. Food options at YYZ range from budget-friendly spots and family dining to meals prepared by top chefs or – my favourite – healthy options at Booster Juice.
Save room in your luggage, as there’s plenty of great shopping to be had too, from electronics, books, and health and beauty, to fashion, all things travel-related, and luxurious duty-free items.
YYZ has multiple lounges, so if you’re lucky enough to have access to them, you can relax and dine in style. However, there’s also the option for you to book a Plaza Premium lounge regardless of airline or ticket class, where you can enjoy fresh food and hot or cold drinks while watching flatscreen televisions or catching up on work at a computer station.
Tips for navigating YYZ
The queues at Toronto Pearson International Airport can be unpredictable – you can find long security lines during peak times, but I’ve also experienced short waiting times. Check out their airport waiting time dashboard for the latest updates, where you can also search by airline. Personally, I always like to allow plenty of time to clear security and avoid panic running to my gate.
I appreciate being a Nexus holder, a programme that allows Canadian and American citizens to clear the border faster. Global Entry is also available at YYZ.
As a parent, I understand that travelling with babies or toddlers can pose challenges, but luckily this Toronto airport has several nursing pods and a children’s play area in Terminal 1. If you’re travelling with a car seat or pram, be sure to check your airline’s rules and regulations.
Service animals and guide dogs are welcome and there are pet relief areas in both terminals. You may even spot a friendly therapy dog with a volunteer roaming around as part of a programme that helps passengers relax before their flight.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) is considerably smaller than YYZ, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in location. This Toronto airport is closer to the city and just minutes from the city centre at the foot of Bathurst Street on Toronto Island. YTZ offers flight services to over 20 cities in Canada and the US, as well as the option to connect to over 100 international destinations.
This single terminal airport is home to flights on Porter Airlines and Air Canada, with web check-in and Nexus available for members. It’s worth noting that since 2010, YTZ has been using renewable energy to power all its operations, including travelators, airfield lights, and the ferry. This modern airport is one of the most walkable and bikeable in North America and is also home to a flight school and Ornge air ambulance services.
Fun facts
Take the scenic route to this Toronto airport and hop aboard Canada’s first zero emission, lithium-ion electric ferry, Marilyn Bell. Enjoy scenic views of Toronto city centre on this free ride. The ferry transports you there in only 90 seconds, so don’t miss the view!
YTZ celebrates local artists by hosting several cool art installations, including an original First World War-era Curtiss JN-4 biplane propeller, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Military Institute. Whenever I visit the airport, I always make sure to stop by and admire the collections.
Shopping and dining
Hungry before your flight? I enjoy getting my caffeine fix at Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, where they also serve sandwiches and fresh pastries. Or check out Market@416 for grab-and-go items to bring onboard with you. There are also plenty of other dining options to choose from at YTZ if you’re still peckish.
You can also shop for duty-free items, including alcohol, confectionery, and beauty products – check out Hudson Travel Essentials for local Toronto souvenirs or snacks for the plane.
Pedestrian tunnel
If you’re like me and want to get in a little exercise before your flight, take the pedestrian tunnel that connects Toronto’s mainland to the island terminal. The tunnel entrance is inside the pavilion and lifts will transport you down 100 feet, where you’ll be standing right under Lake Ontario. Travelators are also available and include one of the longest escalator systems in Canada. If you’re up for it, walk the 153 steps to the top for a mini workout.
Toronto airports: How to choose between them
If you still can’t decide which Toronto airport is best for you, try this simple side-by-side to narrow down the key factors and figure out which airport better suits your needs.
| YYZ* | YTZ** | |
| Distance from city centre | 15 miles (24 km) | 2 miles (3.2 km) |
| Traffic-free public transport | Union Pearson | Canada’s first zero-emission electric ferry, Marilyn Bell (90 seconds) |
| Express Train | (25 minutes) | Not available |
| Flights | Full range, emphasis on international | Primarily domestic and regional |
| Airlines | Full range, emphasis on full-service | A mix of low-cost and full-service carriers |
| Shopping | Wide variety of international options, veering upscale | Good variety of local shops, perfect for souvenirs |
| Dining | Many options, from budget-friendly chains to healthy juice spots | Several options, mainly for grab-and-go items |
| Connection consideration | Large, so can take longer to navigate during connections | Small, quick to navigate for tight connections |
Before you fly away
No matter which of the Toronto airports you’re flying into, hopefully this comprehensive guide has helped you find the one best suited to your specific travel needs. If you need more information about Toronto, KAYAK has you covered. And if you plan on travelling through other airports soon, check out KAYAK’s guides on multi-city flights and learn how you can book them. Safe travels and bon voyage!
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