Public Transit Basics for Newcomers
Navigating Canadian cities is easy with the right transit knowledge. Our 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about Toronto's TTC, Montreal's STM, and Vancouver's TransLink systems.
Toronto (TTC)
- 4 subway lines including Scarborough RT extension
- 11 streetcar routes covering downtown core
- Extensive bus network connecting outer neighborhoods
- 24/7 service on select routes during peak periods
Montreal (STM)
- 4 color-coded metro lines with REM integration
- 180+ bus routes serving island of Montreal
- New night service on major corridors
- Accessible stations with elevators and tactile paths
Vancouver (TransLink)
- 3 SkyTrain lines with Expo Line extensions
- SeaBus connecting downtown to North Vancouver
- West Coast Express regional commuter rail
- Night Owl bus service during late hours
Key Differences Between Transit Types
Metro/Subway
- Fastest option for long distances
- Underground in Toronto/Montreal
- Elevated tracks in Vancouver
SkyTrain
- Vancouver's automated rapid transit
- Connects downtown to airport and suburbs
- Three lines with integrated transfers
Pro Tip: First-Time Rider Checklist
- Check operating hours (systems shut down at midnight)
- Purchase weekly/monthly passes for cost savings
- Download official apps for real-time updates
- Validate tickets before boarding buses
Transit Cards & Mobile Apps
Mastering transit payment systems is crucial for seamless travel in Canadian cities. Our guide explains everything about the three main smart cards:
Presto (Toronto)
Available at Union Station, Shoppers Drug Mart, and online. Register online to protect against loss.
- Auto-reload options available
- Integrated with GO Transit
- Mobile app for balance management
OPUS (Montreal)
Purchase at metro stations or through local merchants. Registration recommended for students/seniors.
- Reusable card with lifetime validity
- Integrated with REM light rail
- Mobile OPUS app in development
Compass (Vancouver)
Buy at SkyTrain stations, London Drugs, or online. Register for balance protection and auto-reload.
- Works with SeaBus and West Coast Express
- Mobile app with trip planning
- Tap-to-pay credit card integration
Mobile App Comparison
Feature | Transit App | Citymapper | Google Maps |
---|---|---|---|
Real-time vehicle tracking | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Service alerts | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Multi-modal routes | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Crowd estimates | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
Transit card balance check | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Fares and Discount Programs
Regular Fares (2025)
Toronto: $3.35 (Presto), $3.90 (cash)
Montreal: $3.50 (OPUS), $3.75 (single ticket)
Vancouver: $2.95 (Compass), $3.10 (cash)
Prices include transfers valid for 2-3 hours depending on city.
Monthly Passes
Toronto: $143.75 (Presto), $156.00 (paper pass)
Montreal: $86.00 (OPUS monthly)
Vancouver: $93.00 (Compass Monthly)
Best value for regular commuters and full-time students.
Special Discount Programs
Students
- U-Pass BC in Vancouver ($33/month)
- Post-secondary student Presto discounts
- STM reduced fares for CEGEP students
Seniors
- Senior Presto card (65+): $2.10/ride
- Senior OPUS card: $1.75/ride
- Seniors Compass: $2.25/ride
Low-Income
- FareCheque program (Montreal)
- Transit Fare Assistance (Toronto)
- Community Impact Pass (Vancouver)
Important Fare Notes
- Children under 12 ride free in all cities
- Transfers valid within 2-3 hours of initial boarding
- Group discounts available for family/friends traveling together
- Day passes often cheaper than multiple single rides
- All cards work with airport express services
City-by-City Guide
Toronto (TTC + GO Transit)
Toronto's transit network combines subways, streetcars, and buses with GO Transit regional rail. Key features:
- Union Station hub connects to UP Express
- Scarborough RT extension opens in 2025
- SmartTrack project adds new stops
- PRESTO works with Metrolinx regional rail

Montreal (STM + REM + exo)
Montreal's system integrates metro, buses, and new REM trains. Highlights:
- REM light rail connects South Shore
- exo commuter rail to Laval and Vaudreuil
- Bilingual French/English service
- New electric buses on major routes

Vancouver (TransLink + SkyTrain + SeaBus)
Vancouver's integrated system includes SkyTrain, SeaBus, and regional buses. Key points:
- Canada Line connects YVR airport
- Burrard Inlet crossings by SeaBus
- West Coast Express to Fraser Valley
- Transit for Humanity initiatives

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