From the Airport
Waterloo Region has a local airport (YKF) with limited direct flights. The airport is 25 minutes away from the University of Waterloo by car.
More likely, you will land at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ), which is approximately 1.5 hours away from the University of Waterloo by car. Upon landing at the airport, you may choose to rent a car or take public transit to Kitchener, ON (Waterloo’s neighbouring city) through VIA Rail, which is relatively convenient and stress-free.
If travelling by VIA Rail, head to the VIA Rail website and book a round trip from Toronto [Pearson International Airport] to Kitchener [VIA Rail / Go Transit]. The VIA site will prompt you to book two tickets for two trains: one for the Union-Pearson express train and one for the VIA train from Union Station in Toronto to the VIA station in Kitchener, ON. From there, it is a 10 minute ride by car to the University of Waterloo.
Some graduate students may be able to drive speakers to and from YYZ. Please contact the conference coordinator as soon as possible for details.
Driving
The University of Waterloo is conveniently located approximately 30 minutes north of Ontario’s 401 highway. From the highway, there are a number intercity roads and back roads that will take you to the university. We recommend using Google Maps to find your preferred route.
Taxi
The Kitchener-Waterloo region is serviced by Waterloo Taxi, City Cabs, and United Taxi. You can book by phone or through the corresponding iOS or Android app. Uber and RideCo services are also available.
Local Buses
The Kitchener-Waterloo region has local buses run by Grand River Transit. This option is cheaper than driving or taking taxis, but is less convenient. If you wish to take this option, please contact the conference coordinator for directions from your train and hotel.