Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way to get from Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) to the CN Tower is by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking about 10-20 minutes and costing approximately $15-$30 CAD. For the most unique and scenic route, take the short walk to the free Airport Ferry and then a 10-minute ride on the 509 Harbourfront streetcar, which costs only $3.35 CAD (Presto fare) but takes 30-45 minutes total.
Option 1: Walking, Free Airport Ferry & TTC Streetcar (The Budget & Local Choice)
This is the official public transit route and is highly recommended for travelers with light luggage who are not in a rush. It combines a short walk, a free ferry ride, and Toronto's iconic streetcar system.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Walk to the Ferry Terminal: Exit the airport terminal and follow the clearly marked pedestrian tunnel. The walk to the ferry dock takes 5-7 minutes.
- Take the Free Airport Ferry: The ferry operates every 15 minutes and is free for all passengers. The crossing to the mainland (PortsToronto dock at Queens Quay West) takes about 90 seconds. Check the official ferry schedule on PortsToronto for current times.
- Catch the 509 Harbourfront Streetcar: From the ferry dock, walk east (left) for 2 minutes to the Queens Quay West at Portland streetcar stop. Board the eastbound 509 Harbourfront streetcar towards Union Station.
- Alight at the CN Tower: Get off at the Union Station stop (the terminus). The CN Tower is a 2-3 minute walk from there, clearly visible and signposted.
| Segment | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Walk | 5-7 min | Free | Covered, accessible tunnel. |
| Airport Ferry | ~2 min | Free | Frequent, free service. |
| 509 Streetcar Ride | ~10 min | $3.35 CAD | Requires Presto Card, Ticket, or Exact Change. TTC Fare Info. |
| Total (Approx.) | 30-45 min | $3.35 CAD | Highly variable based on ferry/wait times. |
Who Should Choose This?
Budget travelers, solo adventurers, and those arriving during daylight hours with one manageable suitcase or backpack. It offers great views of the Toronto skyline from the water.
Key Considerations:
- Luggage: Not ideal for multiple heavy suitcases due to walking and streetcar stairs.
- Payment: You must pay your TTC fare (Presto Card is most convenient) before boarding the streetcar.
- Weather: The initial walk is covered, but the streetcar stop and walk to CN Tower are exposed.
Option 2: PortsToronto Water Taxi (The Scenic & Direct Route)
For a more direct and enjoyable boat ride, skip the public ferry and take the commercial water taxi. It departs from the same Billy Bishop airport dock but lands closer to the core, saving some walking.
How it Works:
- Route: Direct from the YTZ airport dock to the Harbour Square Pier (foot of York Street) or the RCYC Pier.
- Travel Time: The boat ride itself is about 3-5 minutes.
- Cost: A flat fee of $12 per person (as of 2024). Children under 2 are free. Cash or credit accepted on board.
- From Harbour Square Pier: It's a 10-15 minute walk west along Queens Quay to the CN Tower base.
Total Door-to-Door Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes.
Pros vs. Cons:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| ✓ Stunning, unobstructed views of the Toronto Islands and skyline. ✓ Often faster embarkation than the free ferry. ✓ More direct landing point. |
✗ Significantly more expensive than the public ferry+streetcar option. ✗ Still requires a walk or short streetcar ride to CN Tower. ✗ Service may be less frequent than the airport ferry. |
Option 4: Public Bus (TTC) – The Alternative Land Route
If you prefer to avoid the ferry altogether, you can take a bus over the longer, land-based connection from the airport. This is less common and generally slower than the ferry/streetcar option.
The Route:
- Walk to the Bathurst St at Lake Shore Blvd West bus stop (a 10-12 minute walk from the terminal via the pedestrian tunnel and up to street level).
- Board the 927 Highway 27 Express bus northbound.
- Get off at Exhibition Loop (a few stops later).
- Transfer to the 509 Harbourfront or 511 Bathurst streetcar going eastbound towards Union Station.
- Alight at Union Station and walk to the CN Tower.
Total Time: 45-60 minutes. Total Cost: $3.35 CAD (one fare with a 2-hour transfer window).
Analysis: This method involves more walking and an awkward transfer. It is only recommended if the ferry service is temporarily suspended. The ferry+streetcar combo is almost always superior.
Option 5: Private Airport Transfer (For Luxury or Groups)
For the ultimate in convenience, especially for large groups or business travel, you can pre-book a private sedan or van.
- How it Works: Book online in advance. Your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
- Cost: Starts at around $60-$80 CAD for a standard sedan to downtown, and can go up to $150+ for luxury vehicles or vans for 6+ people.
- Time: Similar to taxi, 10-20 minutes, but with guaranteed, pre-arranged service.
- Best For: Corporate travelers, families of 5+, special occasions, or those wanting a guaranteed, seamless experience without the hassle of hailing a cab.
Service Providers: Companies like Aeroportransfer, Airport Limo Toronto, and global services like Booking.com's airport taxi partners offer pre-bookable options.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: Best & Cheapest Options
This table summarizes all options to help you decide the best balance of cost, time, and convenience for your trip from YTZ to the CN Tower.
| Transport Method | Approx. Door-to-Door Time | Approx. Cost (Per Person) | Best For | Convenience / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Rideshare (UberX) | 10-20 min | $15 - $30 | Fastest & Most Convenient | Door-to-door, best for luggage/families. Price varies with demand. |
| Walking + Free Ferry + 509 Streetcar | 30 - 45 min | $3.35 (TTC Fare) | Cheapest & Most Scenic Public Route | Great views, involves walking and short waits. Requires Presto/ticket. |
| PortsToronto Water Taxi + Walk | 20 - 30 min | $12 + ($3.35 optional) | Unique Scenic Experience | Direct boat, less walking than free ferry option. Paid service. |
| Private Transfer | 10-20 min | $60+ (for vehicle) | Luxury, Groups, Business | Pre-booked, meet-and-greet, highest comfort. |
| TTC Bus & Streetcar | 45 - 60 min | $3.35 | Contingency if ferry is down | Least recommended; more walking and transfers. |
Verdict: For most travelers, Uber/Lyft or a taxi offers the best value when balancing time and ease. For the ultimate budget and local experience, the free ferry and streetcar cannot be beat.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Essential Advice for a Smooth Trip:
- Luggage Strategy: Billy Bishop is a walkable airport. If you have more than one rolling suitcase per person, strongly consider a taxi/rideshare. Navigating the tunnel, ferry, and streetcar with heavy bags is challenging.
- Presto Card is King: If using public transit (TTC), get a Presto Card from a machine at Union Station (your destination) or at select shops. It offers discounted fares and seamless transfers.
- Check Ferry Times: While frequent, the free airport ferry can have varied schedules early in the morning or late at night. A quick glance at the schedule board can save a wait.
- CN Tower Entry Tickets: The line for tickets can be very long. Book your CN Tower admission tickets online in advance to skip the ticket queue. The tower is open late, so consider a sunset visit for amazing views.
- Beyond the Tower: Your drop-off at Union Station or the tower puts you in the heart of attractions: the Ripley's Aquarium is right next door, the Roundhouse Park with the Toronto Railway Museum is nearby, and the PATH underground shopping network starts at Union.
- Accessibility: All segments of the ferry+streetcar route, as well as taxis, are wheelchair accessible. The airport tunnel has elevators.
FAQs: Billy Bishop Airport to CN Tower
Is there a direct train from Billy Bishop Airport to CN Tower?
No, there is no direct train. Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) is located on an island and is not connected to Toronto's GO Train or subway system. The most direct public transit route involves the free airport ferry followed by the 509 Harbourfront streetcar.
What is the cheapest way to get from YTZ to CN Tower?
The cheapest way is to take the free airport ferry to the mainland and then the 509 Harbourfront streetcar to Union Station. The only cost is the TTC fare of $3.35 CAD (with Presto card).
How long is the ferry ride from Billy Bishop Airport?
The ferry ride itself is incredibly short, taking only about 90 seconds to 2 minutes to cross the Western Channel. The total process (waiting, boarding, crossing, disembarking) takes about 10-15 minutes.
Is Uber or Lyft available at Billy Bishop Airport?
Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate at YTZ. They have a designated pick-up area just outside the terminal building. Follow the signs for "App-Based Rides."
Can I walk from Billy Bishop Airport to downtown Toronto?
You cannot walk directly from the airport island to downtown. You must take the ferry or water taxi to cross the channel. After the ferry, it is a walkable distance to many downtown areas, including a 10-15 minute walk from the Harbour Square water taxi pier to the CN Tower.
What if I arrive late at night or very early in the morning?
The free airport ferry runs 24/7, but frequency drops to every 30 minutes between midnight and 6:00 AM. Taxis and rideshares are available 24/7 and are the most practical option for late-night/early-morning arrivals, especially with luggage.
Is the Billy Bishop Airport ferry really free?
Yes, the PortsToronto Airport Ferry is completely free for all passengers and members of the public. You do not need an airline ticket or any proof of travel to use it.
Which is better, the free ferry or the paid water taxi?
It depends on your priorities. The free ferry is perfect for budget travelers and connects seamlessly to public transit. The paid water taxi ($12) is often quicker to board, offers a more scenic, open-air ride, and lands slightly closer to the core, saving a few minutes of walking. For most, the free ferry is sufficient.