Waterloo and Getting Here

We are looking forward to welcoming you to Waterloo, Ontario! On this page, we have listed information regarding travel to and from Waterloo and accommodation options to help you plan for your stay.  

Travel from Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) to Waterloo, Ontario

Before you travel to Canada, please ensure you have the proper documents and visitor visas to visit. Check the Government of Canada website for specific requirements for your country.

Details regarding travel visas can be found on the Registration page.

Waterloo is located approximately one hour by car from Toronto Pearson Airport, however there are several methods to book travel from the airport to Waterloo.

  • By Bus: There are buses that travel between Toronto Pearson YYZ, to Waterloo. GO Transit is the most popular. GO Transit e-tickets bought in advance are valid for 7 days. Therefore, you should not book and prepay in advance on the GO website until within 7 days of intended travel.
  • By Taxi: With Waterloo Taxi, you can reserve a taxi on the Waterloo Taxi online form or call at +1 (519) 888-7777.
  • By Rail: UP Express is a direct journey from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station, Downtown Toronto. When at Union Station, transfer to VIA Rail train or GO train.
  • By Airways Transit (up to 8 passengers): Reserve door-to-door service on the Airways Transit website.
  • By Car: Take ON-401 W towards London and then take exit 278 to merge onto ON-8 W toward Kitchener/Waterloo.

Getting around Waterloo

By Bus: Grand River Transit is the public transit operator for the Region of Waterloo, Ontario. It operates daily bus serves across Waterloo and the University of Waterloo campus.

By ION Light Rail Travel: ION is Waterloo Region’s light rail transit (LRT) system. It runs between Kitchener’s Fairview Park Mall and Waterloo’s Conestoga Mall, with stops at the University of Waterloo campus. ION trains connect passengers to the existing bus system (Grand River Transit), making it easy to travel across the region. 

Wireless at Waterloo

The University of Waterloo participates in Eduroam, so you will have access from them if you have joined. There will also be a free alternative WIFI connectivity option for registered participants, the details of which will be given closer to the time of the conference.

About Waterloo

Consistently voted one of Canada’s smartest cities, Waterloo is a dynamic urban centre located in the heart of Canada’s Technology Triangle. Home to many tech leaders and two of Canada’s leading universities, the city attracts students and thinkers worldwide. Waterloo offers visitors a unique blend of intriguing restaurants, boutique stores, galleries, and nightlife with its rich cultural diversity. Learn more about Waterloo!