Discover the Beauty of Flying In & Out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Choosing Toronto’s downtown airport lets you spend less time travelling and more time exploring.
Travelling through a major hub is not only convenient but can also be invigorating when you’re flying in and out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) is located in the heart of downtown Toronto’s Waterfront neighbourhood, just steps from public transit and a range of cafes and restaurants. You can’t beat its urban location for near-immediate access to all the city has to offer. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your Toronto trip.
YTZ is a breeze to travel through
Toronto’s island airport is easy to reach, morning or night. YTZ offers services to 20+ destinations in Canada and the U.S. and its smaller size and efficiency means shorter lines whether you’re clearing security, customs or waiting for your baggage.
YTZ is connected to Toronto’s mainland via a pedestrian tunnel, with moving walkways and elevators to ensure everyone’s comfort (expect the journey to take six minutes—yes, we timed it!).
Or take the free electric-powered ferry, running approximately every 15 minutes. It’s one of the world’s shortest ferry rides at just 90 seconds, offering gorgeous lake and skyline views—plus, it’s lots of fun for kids.
The airport terminal’s location on Eireann Quay, just south of Bathurst Street, is easy and accessible. Take the free shuttle bus to and from Union Station, ride public transit, catch a cab/rideshare, walk, or bike. It’s up to you!
Find "Project T-Dot" by Ajani Charles and more art at YTZ
YTZ is a cultural destination in its own right
As Toronto’s downtown airport, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is passionate about reflecting the vibrancy of the community through a robust art and music program in the passenger terminal. Even before arriving downtown, passengers can take in a variety of exhibits and events that celebrate the uniqueness and diversity of Canada’s largest city.
YTZ is your gateway to Toronto’s top attractions
YTZ is a stone’s throw to many of Toronto’s top destinations. Try any of the following if you want to explore before your hotel check-in time (or extend your adventure before checking in for your flight).
Waterfront
Stroll east along Queens Quay West for waterfront attractions like the charming Toronto Music Garden, a winding and beautifully landscaped park inspired by the music of Bach’s First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello.
It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs after your flight. Keep moving east for a trove of cafes and restaurants, plus the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, a free gallery renowned for its ground-breaking exhibitions.
King Street West
Walk to the foot of Bathurst Street to hop aboard the 511 Bathurst Streetcar northbound to trendy King Street West, where you can find stellar shopping and dining.
Catch a performance at the Royal Alexandra or Princess of Wales theatres or a screening at TIFF Bell Lightbox, which specializes in Canadian and international art-house flicks. Need to relax? Bliss out at a local spa like Hammam or Body Blitz.
Queen Street West
The 511 Bathurst Streetcar can also take you a few blocks further north to hip Queen Street West. Check out the city’s vibrant street art scene by walking Graffiti Alley and taking a self-guided street art tour.
This boho neighbourhood offers cafes, cuisine and cool shopping. Stroll westwards for a panini at Sud Forno or dainty desserts and lattes at Nadége Patisserie, then take a breather in leafy Trinity Bellwoods Park.
Old Town
Eager to dive into your Toronto bucket list? Catch the free shuttle bus from outside the airport to Union Station. The historic transportation hub boasts an architecturally stunning Great Hall where you can snap fantastic Toronto photos.
Next, sit down for afternoon tea at the famed Fairmont Royal York Clockwork Bar. Or try your luck defending the net against (virtual) Sidney Crosby at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Visit historic St. Lawrence Market for epic eats, including the city’s official sandwich: the peameal bacon sammy. On a romantic getaway? Lock it down at the Distillery District’s oh-so-Instagrammable Love Locks installation.
Toronto Islands
Looking for a nature retreat? While you can’t access the Toronto Islands from the actual island airport, you can take the scenic route by catching the 509 Harbourfront Streetcar outside the terminal to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal.
Hop on a ferry or water taxi to the islands for stellar beaches in summer and epic birdwatching, garden viewing and walks during the shoulder seasons. Rental bikes are available in the warmer months.
YTZ simplifies your airport experience
If you’re all about exploring, there’s no better way to maximize your on-the-ground vacation time than flying through YTZ.
With a complimentary shuttle bus to Union Station, easy access to public transit, the ability to walk and bike to/from the airport—and no need to battle traffic out to the city core—you can save on transportation costs and pare hours from your journey. (Pro tip: that also makes it a time-saving option for Torontonians.)
And small doesn’t mean limited. YTZ offers a curated airport experience with everything from last-minute gifts (from artisan chocolate to heritage Canadiana) and ample amenities to art exhibits reflecting Toronto’s vibrant culture.
Sample Ontario craft beers, locally roasted coffee and regionally sourced foods, or just chill in the lounge as you plan your next trip into and out of Toronto. Or, if flying domestically, you can enjoy elevated comfort before you leave in the Aspire | Air Canada Café, accessible to all passengers flying domestically on any airline.
Want to learn more? Visit Billybishopairport.com.