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Key Facts
- Airport: Pearson Airport (YYZ)
- Country: Canada
- Layover window: 6 hours
- Recommended time outside: 4–5 hours in the city (stay close)
- Visa & Entry: Canada eTA required for most visa-exempt nationalities (except US) — apply at canada.ca/eTA ($7 CAD, instant approval). US citizens need passport only.
Insider Tip
Pearson is one of the busiest airports in North America. NEXUS/Global Entry lanes move very fast for pre-cleared travellers. UP Express departs every 15 minutes.
Getting to Toronto City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| UP Express (to Union Station) | CAD $12.35 | 25 min |
| Taxi / Uber | CAD $55–75 | 30–50 min |
Top Toronto: Where to Go
Distillery Historic District
40 min from city centreVictorian industrial complex turned arts district. Free to wander. Best Christmas market in North America (Dec).
CN Tower & Ripley's Aquarium
35 min from city centreRipley's Aquarium (CAD $40) beneath the CN Tower is excellent for families. The CN Tower glass floor is CAD $55.
Kensington Market
40 min from city centreToronto's most bohemian neighbourhood — vintage shops, global street food, and the best empanadas in Canada.
Eat Like a Local in Toronto
Poutine (fries, cheese curds, gravy) at PDC (Poutineville) in the Distillery District — Toronto's definitive comfort food, CAD $15.
6-Hour Itinerary
0–60 min
Clear immigration and transit formalities
Check visa requirements before your flight — many nationalities get free transit entry.
1–2 hrs
Head to city centre by express transport
Most major hub airports have an express rail link that's faster and cheaper than taxis.
2–4 hrs
Explore Toronto's closest landmark district
Stick to neighbourhoods within 20 minutes of the city centre for safe timing.
4–5 hrs
Lunch or dinner at a local restaurant
Airport food costs 2–3× more than city restaurants — worth eating out if time allows.
5–6 hrs
Return to airport (allow 90 min before departure)
International flights require check-in 2–3 hours before departure. Don't cut it close.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 6-hour layover in Toronto?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries offer free transit visas or visa-on-arrival for layovers under 96 hours. Check your specific passport requirements before travel and confirm with your airline.
Is 6 hours enough to leave Pearson Airport?
Yes — 6 hours is enough to explore the nearest neighbourhoods of Toronto comfortably, provided you have transit visa clearance. Allow 2–3 hours total for airport transit (both ways).
What is the best way to get from Pearson to Toronto city centre?
UP Express (to Union Station) is typically the fastest and most affordable option at CAD $12.35, taking approximately 25 min. Rideshare apps are a convenient alternative.
Is there luggage storage at Pearson?
Yes, Pearson Airport has left-luggage facilities in the arrivals and departures hall. Typical cost is $5–15 per bag for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, many airport hotels offer left-luggage for non-guests.
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Flights from Toronto
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Hotels near Toronto Airport
A day-use hotel near the airport is a great option for a 6-hour layover.
Other layover guides for Toronto
Planning a longer stay in Toronto?
Read our full destination guide — hotels, attractions, visa tips, and more.
Toronto Destination Guide →