Toronto Pearson International Airport is Canada’s busiest airport, and it currently serves more than 65 airlines. The airport is in the midst of a 10-year, $4.4 billion Airport Development Program that will expand and upgrade its facilities. In 2004, its long-awaited new terminal opened up. As promised, it’s a beautifully designed space that’s the polar opposite of gloomy Terminal 1, which it is intended to replace. Terminal 2, primarily the home of Air Canada, will be replaced in the future as well. The other terminal is the Trillium Terminal 3, an airy, modern facility with moving walkways, a variety of restaurants and many shops.

Pearson is approximately 30 minutes from downtown Toronto. The trip usually takes 10 to 15 minutes longer during the weekday morning rush (7–9 a.m.) and evening rush (4–7 p.m.). A taxi costs about $36, and a flat-rate limousine costs around $40; there are no tolls or extra fees to pay. You don’t need a reservation for limo service.

Airport savvy

The busier times for the airport tend to be early morning, noon and around dinnertime.

The Malton Airport Gallery, located on the public side of Terminal 1, is part of an extensive art program that was introduced with the opening of Terminal 1 in April 2004. Other highlights of the program include eight commissioned pieces located throughout the terminal, an aviation wall and rotating art exhibitions.

The Sheraton Hotel (www.sheraton.com, 905-672-7000), which is located directly across from Terminal 3 and accessible by a bridge from the terminal, is also a great place to spend some free time. The Sheraton offers half- and full-day passes to its health center, pool and sauna. Spa facilities and massage therapy are also available at the hotel.

Ground transportation

Toronto Pearson is located 25 kilometers northwest of downtown Toronto. Approximately 600 taxis and limos are licensed to pick passengers up at the airport. Their fares are based on a flat-rate tariff for destinations with the Greater Toronto Area. (Expect around C$40 to hotels and attractions by the lake.) Pacific Western Airport Express operates a bus service from the airport with stops at eight major hotels in the downtown area.

GO Transit, Mississauga Transit and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provide regular public transit from the airport to points within the GTA. Additional information can be found at www.gtaa.com.