Independent guide to train travel in the USA and CanadaNot affiliated with Amtrak, VIA Rail or any railroad
USA by RailAmtrak · VIA Rail · Scenic lines

Station guide · ON, Canada

Toronto Union Station Guide

Opened in 1927, Toronto Union Station is Canada's busiest transport hub and serves as the primary gateway for long-distance and regional train travel across the country.

By USA by Rail editors · Last checked October 2026 · How we research

Routes serving TorontoSchematic map of 6 passenger train routes. Each line links to its route guide. Positions are approximate.The CanadianMaple LeafVIA Rail Montreal to TorontoVIA Rail Toronto to OttawaVIA Rail Toronto to London and WindsorVIA Rail Toronto to Kitchener, Stratford and SarniaTorontoNew YorkTorontoMontrealTorontoVancouverOttawaWindsorSarniaSchematic · positions approximate
Station
Toronto Union Station
City
Toronto, ON
Code
TWO
Routes
6

At a glance

  • Toronto Union Station, opened in 1927, is Canada's busiest transport hub
  • Connects with the TTC subway, GO Transit trains and the UP Express to Pearson airport
  • Served by VIA Corridor trains, the Canadian and Amtrak's Maple Leaf

Toronto Union Station stands as a major focal point for rail travel in North America. Since it opened in 1927, the building has grown into Canada's busiest transport hub. It handles a vast number of passengers connecting between regional transit and long-distance rail services. The station anchors the downtown core of Toronto and provides a vital link for both commuters and cross-country travelers. Passengers can easily access various parts of the city and the wider province of Ontario from this central location. Whether you are heading across the continent or taking a shorter regional trip, Union Station offers a busy but organized starting point for your journey.

Trains from Toronto

TrainBetweenRuns
Maple LeafNew York to TorontoDaily in each direction
The CanadianToronto to VancouverUsually twice a week in each direction
VIA Rail Montreal to TorontoMontreal to TorontoSeveral trains a day
VIA Rail Toronto to OttawaToronto to OttawaSeveral trains a day
VIA Rail Toronto to London and WindsorToronto to WindsorSeveral trains a day
VIA Rail Toronto to Kitchener, Stratford and SarniaToronto to SarniaLimited trains a day

Multiple rail services meet at Toronto Union Station. VIA Rail operates frequent Corridor trains, including the VIA Rail Montreal to Toronto route guide which takes about 5 to 5 hours 30 minutes. Several trains a day also run to Ottawa, Windsor and Sarnia. For cross-country travel, The Canadian departs from Toronto to Vancouver. This overnight journey takes about four days and four nights end to end, usually running twice a week as of 2026. Cross-border passengers can board the Maple Leaf to New York. Operated jointly by Amtrak and VIA Rail, this service runs daily and takes about 12 to 13 hours end to end, including the border inspection.

Getting to and from the station

Toronto Union Station is highly integrated into the local transit network. The facility connects directly with the TTC subway system, making it simple to reach most neighborhoods in Toronto. Passengers traveling further afield in Ontario can transfer to GO Transit commuter trains. If you are flying into or out of the region, the station also connects with the UP Express, which provides a direct rail link to Pearson airport. Because this is Canada's busiest transport hub, travelers should allow plenty of time to navigate the concourses and find their platforms. Always check local transit websites for the latest schedules before you travel.

Around the station

The station sits right in the heart of downtown Toronto. It is within walking distance of major financial and entertainment districts. Visitors will find themselves close to the waterfront and the CN Tower, which are prominent landmarks in the city center. Because of its central location, passengers have easy access to a wide variety of hotels, restaurants and cultural venues immediately upon exiting the building. The surrounding streets are heavily pedestrianized and well signposted, allowing travelers to explore the downtown core easily while waiting for a connecting train.

Station tips

  • Review Amtrak and VIA booking tips to secure the best fares for your journey.
  • Check the Luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA before arriving at the station.
  • Allow extra time to navigate the station because it is Canada's busiest transport hub.
  • Have your passport ready if you are taking the Maple Leaf to New York.

Popular trips from Toronto

Questions travellers ask

How long does the train from Toronto to Vancouver take?

The journey on The Canadian takes about four days and four nights end to end. You can read more about this route in our guide to traveling from Toronto to Vancouver.

Are there direct trains from Toronto to New York?

Yes, the Maple Leaf provides a direct service from Toronto to New York. The trip takes about 12 to 13 hours end to end, which includes the time needed for the border inspection.

How long is the train ride to Montreal?

Traveling by train between Montreal and Toronto takes about 5 to 5 hours 30 minutes. VIA Rail operates several trains a day on this busy corridor as of 2026, making it a highly convenient option for passengers.