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TransitPathfinder

Master Canadian Transit in 2025

Your complete guide to navigating Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver's public transportation systems as a newcomer or tourist.

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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
Official TTC Site

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
Official STM Site

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
Official TransLink Site

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
PrestoCard.ca

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
OPUSCard.ca

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
CompassCard.ca

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
Map Pin

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
Toronto Transit Map

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
Montreal Transit Map

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
Vancouver Transit Map

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Complete guide with city comparisons, discount programs, and common mistake avoidance tips.

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