How to Get Here
How to Get to Waterloo from Toronto Pearson Airport
Welcome to Canada! If you’re arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and heading to Wilfrid Laurier International College (WLIC) in Waterloo, here are your transportation options.
After You Arrive at the Airport
When you land at Pearson Airport:
- Complete the CBSA Declaration Card before customs.
- Have your immigration documents ready (e.g. study permit, passport, Letter of Acceptance).
- Connect to free airport Wi-Fi to message your family or friends and let them know you’ve arrived safely.
Getting to Waterloo
You are responsible for arranging your own transportation from the airport to your accommodation in Waterloo. Below are your best options:
- Airport Shuttle – Airways Transit (Most Convenient)
This is a door-to-door shuttle service from Toronto Pearson Airport to your destination in Waterloo.
- Operates 24/7.
- Travel time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
How to book:
- Visit airwaystransit.com
- You’ll need:
- Your flight details
- Your destination address in Waterloo (or residence name)
- A credit card
You must book your shuttle at least 14 days in advance.
- GO Transit (Most Affordable)
You can take GO Buses from the airport to Laurier in Waterloo. Here’s how:
- At the airport, go to Terminal 1, ground level, columns Q2-Q4 to catch a GO Bus Route 40 – Hamilton GO.
- Get off at Square One GO Terminal.
- Transfer to GO Bus Route 25 – University of Waterloo.
- Get off at Wilfrid Laurier University (the stop is right in front of campus at University Ave. & Hazel St.).
- Travel time: around 2.5 hours
- You can pay using a Presto card, credit card, buy a ticket from machines in Terminal 1, or online on their website.
Plan your trip here: www.gotransit.com
- VIA Rail (Train from Downtown Toronto)
- Take the UP Express train from Pearson Airport to Union Station (about 25 minutes).
- From Union Station, board a VIA Rail train to Kitchener.
- Once in Kitchener, take a taxi, local bus (GRT), or a rideshare (like Uber or Lyft) to your address in Waterloo.
- Travel time: ~2 hours (plus local travel time)
Book tickets: www.viarail.ca
- Rideshare or Taxi
You can also take a rideshare (Uber, Lyft) or a taxi directly from the airport to Waterloo.
- Travel time: ~1.5 hours
- Fastest option but most expensive
Need Help?
If you’re unsure what option to choose, or you’re experiencing delays, immigration issues, or travel difficulties, email us right away at info@laurieric.ca
Please include:
- Your full name
- Student ID number
- A phone number we can reach you at
We’re here to help make sure your arrival goes as smoothly as possible. Safe travels — we can’t wait to welcome you at WLIC!