Toronto has a simply laid out, but effective subway system for a city of its size. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway system consists of 3 separate lines.
Subway Lines
The Bloor/Danforth Line
This is the east/west running subway line that consists of 31 different stations, starting with Kipling Station, and ending its run at Kennedy Station, where it hooks up with the Scarborough RT. The route for this line can be generally traced along Bloor Street, which runs almost the entire length of Toronto, from west to east, eventually turning into Danforth Avenue. The Bloor/Danforth Line connects with the Yonge/University/Spadina/ line at 3 separate points: Spadina Station, St. George Station, and Yonge-Bloor station.
Yonge/University/Spadina Line
This is the primary north/south line for Toronto’s subway system. It runs in a U-shaped route, starting at Finch Station, then going south to Union Station, then heading north/west up to Downsview Station. The Yonge/University Spadina line connects with the Sheppard Line at Sheppard-Yonge Station, and the Bloor/Danforth Line at Spadina Station, St. George Station, and Yonge-Bloor Station.
Sheppard Line
This is Toronto’s newest and smallest subway line, with only 5 stations. It connects with the Yonge/University/Spadina Line at Sheppard-Yonge Station, then runs east to Don Mills Station.
Scarborough RT Line
Though technically not a subway line, the Scarborough RT connects directly with the Bloor/Danforth Line at Kennedy Station, and is the line most subway users take in order to get further east into the heart of Scarborough. This line consists of 6 stations and runs in an L-shaped route, heading north, then east until it ends up at McCowen Station.
General Information
All Toronto subways begin service at 6:00 AM, Monday to Saturdays, and 9:00 AM on Sundays. The last subway on each line ends its run at 2:00 AM. Waits between subways are very minimal, with a 2 to 3 minute wait between trains during peak times, and a maximum of 5 minutes between trains during slow periods.
To enter a subway station, passengers are required to pay a fare of $3. Fares can be paid directly to a TTC representative at the booth at the entrance to the station, or through the use of tokens or passes, which can be purchased either at the station, or from participating stores and retail outlets around the city.
Etiquette
It is important to keep your fellow passengers in mind while riding the subway, particularly during peak hours when the trains are crowded. Here are a few tips to help you on your journey.
- Never rush the doors or hold them open. TTC Subway doors are designed to close automatically, and can be damaged if they are tampered with. This can lead to serious delays, accidents, or injuries.
- Seats at the front of each subway car may be required by train operators. If you are asked to surrender your seat, please do so.
- It’s nice to give up your seat to a passenger who is elderly, disabled, or pregnant.
- Moving between train cars is strictly forbidden and can lead to a serious fine.
- Do not block subway doors. Always make sure to stand well away from the doors to allow smooth boarding and departures.
- Make sure to wait until everyone has exited the subway before attempting to enter.
Maps
Maps of the TTC subway system can be found prominently displayed at all subway stations and above the doors on all subway cars. The TTC maintains an excellent website with maps and additional information. Click here for access to the TTC website.
