Getting Around Canadian Cities

Canada’s major cities have solid public transit systems. Toronto has the TTC with four subway lines, an extensive streetcar network, and buses. Get a PRESTO card at any subway station for seamless transfers. Vancouver’s SkyTrain is clean and efficient with three automated lines, and the Compass Card covers all TransLink services including buses and the SeaBus ferry. Montreal’s STM metro has four lines and is one of the busiest systems in North America. All three cities are well-connected, but service frequency drops significantly after midnight.

Intercity Travel Tips

VIA Rail’s Toronto-Montreal corridor is the most popular train route, with several departures daily. The journey takes about five hours and the scenery along the St. Lawrence is beautiful. Book “Escape” fares (non-refundable) for savings of up to 50%. For western Canada, driving or flying is usually more practical than rail. The Rocky Mountaineer is a spectacular scenic train but is a premium tourism experience, not practical transport. Greyhound no longer operates in Canada, so FlixBus and Megabus have filled the budget intercity bus gap in Ontario and Quebec.

Practical Tips

• Canada is a cashless-friendly country, but carry some cash for small shops and tips
• Tipping is standard: 15-20% in restaurants, CAD 1-2 per drink at bars, 15% for taxis
• Winter travel (November-March) requires serious cold weather gear, especially on the Prairies and in Quebec
• Mobile data is expensive in Canada; buy a prepaid SIM from Freedom Mobile or Public Mobile for better rates than the big carriers
• Tim Hortons is everywhere and a reliable budget option for coffee and quick meals