Travel Guide: Toronto to New York City via FlixBus 

Traveling from Toronto to NYC with FlixBus is a convenient and comfortable way to travel between these two iconic cities. With a journey time of approximately 10 hours, it’s a long trip, but FlixBus makes it easy and comfortable with its many onboard amenities. With a few additional tips and information, your bus trip to the Big Apple will be smooth and enjoyable. 

Getting to Your FlixBus Stop 

Public Transport: Toronto’s well-organized public transportation system, operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), includes subways, buses, and streetcars, making it easy to navigate the city. GO Transit, Ontario’s regional bus and train service, also offers frequent connections to Union Station, where one of the FlixBus stops is conveniently located within the bus terminal. 

Taxi or Ride-Sharing: If you’re traveling with heavy luggage or prefer a more comfortable option, Toronto’s taxi services, such as Co-Op Cabs, can take you directly to your FlixBus stop. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the city. 

Arriving in New York City and Navigating the City 

FlixBus services arrive at several key locations in New York City, including the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. This central location provides convenient access to the rest of the city, with a variety of transportation options available to help you reach your final destination. 

Understanding Manhattan’s Layout 

First time in the Big Apple? Here’s a helpful tip: Manhattan’s streets follow a grid pattern, with Streets running east to west and Avenues running north to south. Broadway is an exception, cutting diagonally through the grid. Once you grasp this layout, getting around the city becomes much easier. 

NYC’s Urban Transportation Options 

The Subway System: 

New York City’s subway system is among the most extensive and efficient in the world, operating 24/7. Managed by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the subway and bus systems are both accessible with a MetroCard. If you plan on using public transport frequently during your visit, consider purchasing a 7-day pass for unlimited travel. Be sure to check for any service changes, especially late at night or on weekends. 

The Bus System: 

The MTA also operates a comprehensive bus network throughout NYC. Buses are a good option for shorter trips, however, keep in mind that buses are more susceptible to traffic delays, particularly in Manhattan, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule. 

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: 

Taxis are abundant in New York City and can be easily hailed. Look for a cab with its rooftop light on, indicating it’s available. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely used and offer a convenient alternative. 

Ferries: 

New York’s extensive ferry network offers an alternative way to get around, particularly for travelling between boroughs or enjoying scenic views of the city. While ferries may not be the primary mode of transportation for most visitors, they can provide a pleasant and unique way to experience New York. 

Useful Tips for Travelling from Toronto to New York City 

Prepare for the Journey: 

The bus trip from Toronto to New York City takes approximately 9.5 to 10 hours. To make your journey more comfortable, it’s a good idea to bring along essentials such as snacks, water, and some form of entertainment like books, movies, or music. Packing a travel pillow, blanket, and items like earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can also help you rest during the ride. If you opt for an overnight bus, you’ll likely arrive in New York City feeling more refreshed and ready to explore. 

Border Crossing: 

Since you’ll be crossing the US-Canada border, it’s essential to have all the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and any required visas. Be prepared for customs checks, which can add some time to your journey. Keep your documents and any items you may need to declare easily accessible to make the process as smooth as possible. 

First Time in NYC? Here Are Some Extra Tips 

Currency and Payments: 

The United States uses U.S. dollars, so ensure you have some cash on hand or a credit/debit card that works internationally. While most places in New York City accept card payments, it’s always helpful to have cash for small purchases, tips, or locations that may not accept cards. If you find yourself short on cash, there are plenty of ATMs around the city, though be mindful that withdrawing money may incur additional fees. 

Cultural Etiquette: 

New York City is known for its fast-paced atmosphere, but it’s important to be mindful of local customs, particularly when it comes to tipping. In restaurants, it’s customary to tip 18-20% for good service and 22% or more for excellent service. If you’re dining with a larger group—often six or more—many restaurants automatically include the tip, so check your bill to avoid tipping twice. In bars, tipping $1-$2 per drink is standard, but for larger tabs, the same tipping guidelines as restaurants apply. For taxis or ride-sharing services, it’s typical to tip around 15% for basic service and 20% for a good ride. 

When staying at a hotel, tipping is expected: room service generally warrants a 15% tip unless it’s already included, while concierges typically receive $3-$5 for helpful information or assistance, with more for exceptional service. Bellhops or doormen should be tipped $1-$2 per bag, and housekeeping staff usually receive $5 per night, especially if you’re part of a larger or messier group. Even if you’re not staying at a hotel but need to store your luggage temporarily, a small tip of $5-$10 can go a long way in ensuring your request is accommodated. It’s advisable to carry small bills, particularly $1 bills, to make tipping easier and smoother. 

Healthcare: 

If you require medical attention while in New York City, be aware that healthcare in the U.S. is not free and can be very expensive without insurance. It’s crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. In case of an emergency, you can visit one of the city’s hospitals, but be prepared for potentially high out-of-pocket costs if you’re uninsured. Always carry your insurance information with you. 

Safety: 

New York City is generally safe, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or on public transit. Keep your belongings secure, avoid deserted areas at night, and if you’re unsure about a neighbourhood, ask locals or use apps to check safety ratings. For emergencies, dial 911 for immediate assistance. 

Find the cheapest buses from Toronto to New York

Looking for cheap tickets from Toronto to New York? FlixBus has you covered. The distance between Toronto and New York is 748 km, which takes a minimum of 9 hours 55 minutes.
FlixBus has a large network, so you can travel onwards with us once you reach New York. Tickets for this connection cost $130.98 on average, but you can book a trip for as little as $107.98. The lowest price for this connection is $107.98, but prices might be higher during high season and when the bus gets full.

So how to find the best ticket prices? Be sure to book in advance on our website or via our FlixBus App. When booking through the App, your ticket will be stored directly, making bus travel even more green and convenient!

Taking the bus from Toronto

Toronto is well-connected on the FlixBus network with 55 connections departing every day from 6 stations, making it very easy to travel across the country.

Arrival in New York

With 11 bus stations, New York is well-connected. Traveling with FlixBus around the country is very cheap and easy, as to get to New York you can pick one of the 192 routes arriving daily.

What to expect onboard the FlixBus bus from Toronto to New York

Once you’ve booked your bus tickets through the FlixBus App using one of our secure payment methods, you just need to bring your phone to use as your ticket - and your luggage, of course. Don’t worry about packing light as you can bring one piece of carry-on luggage and one piece of hold luggage for your journey.

Want to be guaranteed the best seat in the house? You can choose yours when you book your ticket. Opt for a classic seat, a table seat, a panorama seat for a great view, or reserve the free seat beside you for extra space.

Once you’ve stowed your luggage away and settled in, sit back and enjoy the journey with the onboard services on your FlixBus bus including free Wi-Fi onboard, FLIXtainment - our entertainment portal, toilets and plug socket.Whether you need to fire off some emails during your trip, or you want to relax and enjoy the ride, we’ve got you covered.