Where to Sleep, Shower, or Relax at Toronto Pearson International Airport (2026 Guide)

A YYZ layover at Toronto International Airport means time between flights that can range from under an hour to overnight, depending on your connection type and airline.

Quick Answers

• Need a shower Toronto airport now? → GoodLife Fitness Terminal 1 ($25 CAD) or Plaza Premium Lounges ($59)
• Need to sleep 2-4 hours? → Terminal 1 Area 15 (free Muskoka chairs, landside)
• Need to sleep 6+ hours? → Day use hotel Toronto airport
• Looking for nap pods? → THEY DON’T EXIST (CIBC Energy Pods are recliners only, not sleeping capsules)
• Transfer between terminals? → Free LINK train (4-8 minutes, operates 24/7)

Does Toronto airport have nap pods?

No. Despite online claims, Toronto Pearson does NOT have traditional sleeping pods or nap pods as of January 2026. The CIBC Energy Pods in Terminal 1 Area 15 are ergonomic recliners designed for sitting and light relaxation, not sleeping capsules.

Where can I shower at Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ)?

Toronto Pearson has no public shower facilities.

Shower access requires:

(1) YYZ lounge day passes at Air Canada Maple Leaf or Plaza Premium locations (starting $59 for 2 hours)

(2) GoodLife Fitness day pass in Terminal 1 landside ($25 CAD)

(3) Spa services at Be Relax or Wellbeing Spa (Terminal 3)

(4) Day-use hotel rooms (price varies).

Where to sleep at Toronto airport (YYZ) during a layover?

• For layovers under 4 hours, use free designated rest zones with Muskoka chairs in Terminal 1 landside Area 15 or armrest-free seating near Gates C34 and D34.

• For 4-6 hour layovers, YYZ lounge access (Air Canada Maple Leaf, Plaza Premium) provides quieter rest zones.

• For 6+ hours or overnight stays requiring guaranteed sleep access a day-use hotel room. Or if you are looking for a Toronto airport transit hotel for overnight consider the Sheraton Gateway which connects directly to Terminal 3 via landside.

What are the operating hours and prices for shower facilities at YYZ?

• GoodLife Fitness (Terminal 1, $25): Monday-Friday 6:00 AM-8:00 PM, Saturday-Sunday 8:00 AM-6:00 PM.

• Plaza Premium Lounges (3 locations Terminal 1, 2 locations Terminal 3, $59 for 2 hours): Hours vary by location from 5:30 AM-10:30 PM.

• Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges (Terminal 1, typically $59 guest pass): Domestic 5:00 AM-midnight, International 4:30 AM-10:30 PM.

Note: Plaza Premium International location (Gate E77, Terminal 1) temporarily closed as of December 27, 2025.

Key Infrastructure Details
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) operates two terminals.

• Terminal 1 (Concourses A-F, most domestic and many international airlines)
• Terminal 3 (Concourses B, C, G, primarily international and select domestic flights).

Both terminals connect via a free 24/7 LINK train departing every 4-8 minutes with 4-8 minute travel time.

Terminal sleep presents challenges: cold temperatures year-round, bright 24/7 fluorescent lighting, frequent PA announcements, and gate seating with armrests designed to discourage sleeping. For uninterrupted rest, hotels provide the only reliable option for genuine sleep during long layovers.

Last Verified: January 2026 | Airport Code: YYZ | Official Name: Lester B. Pearson International Airport | Location: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L5P 1B2 | IATA Code: YYZ

Toronto Pearson Terminal Layout & Navigation

Toronto Pearson International Airport comprises two main passenger terminals connected by free transit infrastructure. Understanding your terminal assignment and concourse location determines which rest zones, shower facilities, and amenities you can access during your layover.

Terminal 1 serves Concourses A through F and handles most domestic flights, many international arrivals (Concourse E), and US Transborder departures (Concourse F requiring US pre-clearance).

Major carriers include Air Canada, United Airlines, Lufthansa, and many Star Alliance partners.

Terminal 3 serves Concourses B, C, and G and primarily handles international flights plus select domestic routes.

Major carriers include WestJet, Air Transat, Air France, and various international airlines.

How to Transfer Between Terminals

The free LINK train operates 24 hours daily with trains departing every 4-8 minutes. Travel time between terminals ranges from 4-8 minutes depending on time of day. The LINK train is fully climate-controlled, accessible, and requires no ticket or fare payment.

LINK Train Stops:

1. Terminal 3
2. Viscount Station (Alt Hotel, employee parking)
3. Terminal 1
4. Value Park (economy parking)
5. Sheraton Gateway Hotel connection

Simply follow signage to the LINK train platform from either terminal. Connection points are clearly marked throughout both facilities.

✓ Confirmed operational January 2026: LINK train service continues 24/7 with no interruptions

Choose Your YYZ Layover Strategy by Time Available

Toronto Pearson Airport does not operate public shower facilities accessible without purchasing lounge access, gym membership, or spa services. All shower options require advance planning and understanding of your terminal location.

Can You Shower at Toronto Pearson?

How to Shower at Toronto Pearson Airport in 6 Steps

Step 1: Identify your terminal and concourse assignment (check boarding pass or flight confirmation)

Step 2: Choose your shower option based on budget, time, and location:

• Budget option: GoodLife Fitness Terminal 1 landside ($25)
• Mid-range: Plaza Premium or Air Canada Maple Leaf lounges ($59)
• Premium: HotelsByDay day-use hotel room (price varies)

Step 3: Verify operating hours and current availability (especially for Plaza Premium International E77—currently closed)

Step 4: Purchase day pass at lounge entrance desk or book online in advance for hotels

Step 5: Request shower access at lounge reception or proceed directly to hotel shower facilities

Step 6: Complete shower using provided towels and toiletries (typically 15-20 minutes), then return to gate area (allow 15 minutes walking time from most lounge locations)

✓ Pro tip: Set a timer for 30 minutes before you need to leave for your gate to account for shower time plus walking distance

YYZ Terminal 1 Shower Facilities

5 Locations with Shower Access – ✓ Verified operational January 1, 2026

• Prices: $25-$59 for 2-hour access blocks
• Hours: Earliest opens 5:30 AM, latest closes midnight
• Closest to most international gates: Plaza Premium Domestic (requires 15-minute walk to reach International E Gates during Plaza Premium International closure)
• ⚠️ CLOSURE ALERT: Plaza Premium International (Gate E77) closed December 27, 2025 until further notice—use Domestic location as alternate

Terminal 1Shower Options

1. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (Domestic)

Location: Near Gate D20, Terminal 1, Level 3 (post-security)
Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM midnight daily
Access Requirements: Business class ticket, Air Canada elite status, or guest pass (typically $59)
Shower Facilities: Yes, included with lounge access
Additional Amenities: Hot food, beverages, WiFi, work stations, quiet zones
Best For: Air Canada passengers with 4-6 hour domestic layovers requiring shower + work space
Capacity: Moderate—arrival during peak afternoon hours (2-5 PM) may have wait times
Official Info: Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges

2. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (International)

Location: Node F, Level 3, Terminal 1 (post-security, International/Transborder area)
Operating Hours: 4:30 AM to 10:30 PM (hours vary by day of week)
Access Requirements: Business class ticket, Air Canada elite status, or guest pass (typically $59)
Shower Facilities: Yes, included with lounge access
Additional Amenities: Hot food, premium beverages, WiFi, work areas, quiet rest zones
Best For: International or US Transborder travelers with Star Alliance status or business class tickets
Official Info: Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges

3. Plaza Premium Lounge (Domestic)

Location: Level 3 Check-In area, Terminal 1, after security
Operating Hours: 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM daily
Pricing: $59 CAD for 2 hours, extended packages available
Shower Facilities: Yes—newly renovated shower suites available
Additional Amenities: Fresh hot and cold food, beverages, flat screen TVs, quiet atmosphere, dietary options (vegetarian, vegan), optional VIP upgrade available
Recent Updates: Newly renovated and expanded as of 2025
Best For: Travelers seeking reliable shower access in domestic area, recently upgraded facilities
Booking: Walk-up or advance booking via Plaza Premium website
⚠️ Note: During Plaza Premium International (E77) closure, this location serves as alternate for international travelers—add 15 minutes walking time to reach International E gates

4. Plaza Premium Lounge (International) — TEMPORARILY CLOSED

Location: Near Gate E77, Terminal 1 International area (post-security)
Status: ⚠️ TEMPORARILY CLOSED as of December 27, 2025 for facility upgrades
Expected Reopening: To be announced—check Plaza Premium website for updates

5. Plaza Premium Lounge (USA Transborder)

Location: Near Gate F55, Terminal 1, USA Transborder area (post-security, after US customs pre-clearance)
Operating Hours: 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily
Pricing: $59 CAD for 2 hours
Shower Facilities: Yes, included with lounge access
Additional Amenities: Fresh hot and cold food, beverages, flat screen TVs, comfortable seating
Best For: US-bound travelers who have already cleared US customs and are in Concourse F
Important Note: Once you clear US customs pre-clearance, you cannot leave the secure USA Transborder area to access other terminal facilities
Booking: Plaza Premium USA Transborder Lounge

6. GoodLife Fitness

Location: Terminal 1 Arrivals area (landside, before security), near Gate F area
Operating Hours:

• Monday-Friday: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Saturday-Sunday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  Pricing: $25 CAD day pass
  Shower Facilities: Yes—full shower facilities with towel service included
  Additional Amenities: Locker access, cardio equipment, free weights, stretching area, currency exchange, luggage wrapping station, excess baggage storage
  Best For: Budget-conscious travelers with 3+ hours who don’t mind exiting security to access landside facilities—most affordable shower option at YYZ
  Important Considerations:
• Located before security (landside) — you must exit secured area and pass through security again to return to gates
• Budget 45-60 minutes for security re-entry during peak hours
• Reduced weekend hours
  Official Info: GoodLife Fitness locations

7. Be Relax Spa (Canada Departures)

Location: Near Gate D37, Terminal 1, Canada Departures (post-security)
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday-Saturday
Services: Massage therapy, spa treatments, shower facilities
Pricing: Service-based pricing (shower typically bundled with treatments)
Best For: Travelers wanting spa services (massage, facial) combined with shower access
Booking: Walk-in or advance booking recommended during peak travel times
Official Info: Be Relax Spa

Before You Book Terminal 1 Shower Access

1. Verify specific lounge location has shower facilities — Not all airline lounges include showers; confirm before purchasing day pass

2. Check lounge is in your correct terminal post-security — Changing terminals adds 15-20 minutes via LINK train

3. Confirm capacity restrictions — Popular lounges can reach capacity during peak afternoon departures (2-6 PM)

4. Check if day passes available during your layover window — Some lounges restrict day pass sales during peak periods

5. Validate operating hours match your schedule — Most lounges close midnight-1 AM; overnight showers require hotel or 24-hour spa facilities

✓ Important reminder: If a shower is non-negotiable during a 6+ hour layover, day-use hotels typically offer better value and guaranteed access than lounge day passes with potential capacity constraints

YYZ Terminal 3 Shower Facilities

Terminal 3 Shower Options

✓ Verified operational January 1, 2026

1. Plaza Premium Landmark Lounge (International)

Location: Near Gate C32, Terminal 3, International Departures (post-security)
Operating Hours: Full day operations (specific hours vary—verify before arrival)
Pricing: $59 CAD for 2 hours, extended packages available
Shower Facilities: Yes—premium shower suites with rainfall showerheads (flagship location amenity)
Additional Amenities: 300+ seats, hot buffet, premium beverages, dedicated quiet zones, work stations, WiFi
Best For: International travelers seeking premium lounge experience with highest-quality shower facilities at YYZ
Capacity: Large lounge but fills during peak international departure windows (early morning, early evening)
Booking: Plaza Premium Landmark Lounge

2. Plaza Premium Lounge (Domestic/International)

Location: Near Gate B24, Terminal 3 (post-security)
Operating Hours: Approximately 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM daily
Pricing: $59 CAD for 2 hours
Shower Facilities: Yes, available on first-come-first-serve basis (subject to capacity)
Additional Amenities: Hot food, beverages, comfortable seating, work areas
Best For: Travelers in Concourse B who want reliable lounge access with shower option
Important Note: Shower availability not guaranteed during peak capacity—Plaza Premium Landmark (C32) is more reliable for shower access
Booking: Plaza Premium Lounges

3. American Airlines Admirals Club

Location: Near Duty Free Stores, Terminal 3 (post-security)
Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily
Access Requirements: Business/First class on eligible American Airlines or partner flights, AAdvantage elite status, or day pass (when available)
Shower Facilities: Yes, included with lounge access
Additional Amenities: Hot food, premium beverages, work stations, quiet seating
Best For: American Airlines passengers with existing lounge access or elite status
Official Info: American Airlines Admirals Club

4. Be Relax Spa

Location: Near Gate C36, Terminal 3 (airside, post-security)
Operating Hours:

• Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
  Services: Spa treatments, massage therapy, dedicated shower facilities
  Pricing: Service-based pricing (showers typically bundled with spa services)
  Best For: Travelers wanting massage or spa treatment combined with shower access
  Booking: Walk-in or advance booking during peak seasons
  Official Info: Be Relax Spa

5. Wellbeing Spa

Location: Near Gate A10, USA Departures area, Terminal 3 (post-security)
Operating Hours:

• Monday-Friday: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Sunday: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
  Services: Massage therapy, shower facilities
  Pricing: Service-based pricing
  Best For: US-bound travelers in Terminal 3 USA Departures area who want massage + shower combo
  Important Note: More limited hours than other shower options—verify hours match your layover window

Before You Book Terminal 3 Shower Access

1. Confirm you’re departing from Terminal 3 — Free LINK train from Terminal 1 takes 4-8 minutes but requires station navigation

2. Check Plaza Premium Landmark capacity during peak international departures — Friday mornings and early evenings (5-8 PM) see highest traffic

3. Validate your specific concourse post-security — Walking from Gate B24 to Gate C32 takes approximately 10 minutes; plan accordingly if switching locations

Nap Pods Toronto Airport

The Truth About Toronto Airport Nap Pods

Despite frequent mentions in online travel forums and outdated blog posts, there are no traditional sleeping pods, nap capsules, or nap stations at Toronto airport as of January 2026. This is one of the most common misconceptions about YYZ layover amenities.

What the CIBC Energy Pods Actually Are

Location: Terminal 1 landside rest area, Area 15 near Aisle 15 (before security)
Design: Ergonomic recliners designed for sitting, reading, and light relaxation—NOT sleeping capsules
Cost: Free to use
Comfort Level: Minimal comfort for actual sleep due to upright reclining design (approximately 120-degree recline angle)
Best For: Short rest periods (15-30 minutes), reading, charging devices while sitting comfortably
NOT Suitable For: Extended sleep at Toronto airport overnight layover if you need genuine rest and sleep

Why Terminal Sleep at YYZ Is Challenging

Terminal sleeping at Toronto Pearson presents significant obstacles regardless of which seating you choose:

Environmental Challenges:

• Temperature: Terminals maintain cold temperatures year-round (bring extra layers)
• Lighting: Bright fluorescent lighting operates 24/7 without overnight dimming
• Noise: Frequent public announcements, PA system notifications, and cleaning crews
• Seating: Most gate seating includes armrests specifically designed to discourage lying down
• Security: Overnight patrols occasionally wake sleeping travelers in public zones

Reality Check: Expect light rest rather than deep, restorative sleep. For uninterrupted sleep during long layovers, lounges provide marginally better comfort through quieter zones and improved seating, but nearby day-use properties—remain a reliable option for genuine rest.

Where Can I Sleep at Toronto Pearson During a Layover?

Layovers Under 4 Hours: Free Designated Rest Areas

For short layovers where hotel checkout/check-in isn’t practical, free rest zones provide basic relief without added expense.

Terminal 1: Best Free Sleep Locations

Area 15 Landside Rest Zone

Location: Terminal 1, landside (before security), near Aisle 15
Seating Type: Muskoka-style lounge chairs and armrest-free benches
Hours: Open 24/7
Noise Level: Lower than gate areas—fewer departure announcements
Outlets: Available throughout area for device charging
Nearby Amenities: Cafes, restrooms, CIBC Energy Pods
Best For: 2-4 hour layovers where you haven’t passed through security yet, or travelers willing to exit security for superior free rest area
Traveler Reviews 2024-2025: Consistently rated as most comfortable free sleep location at YYZ
Important: If you’re already post-security, exiting to access Area 15 requires passing through security again (budget 45-60 minutes)

Gate C34 and D34 Area

Location: Terminal 1, Concourses C and D (post-security)
Seating Type: Armrest-free benches (availability varies)
Hours: 24/7 (publicly accessible gates)
Noise Level: Moderate—standard gate announcements
Best For: Travelers already post-security who want armrest-free seating without exiting to landside
Note: Seat quality and availability varies; scout multiple gate areas if first option is occupied

Concourse E (Gates E75-E81)

Location: Terminal 1, International Concourse E (post-security)
Seating Type: Standard gate seating (some locations have fewer armrests)
Hours: 24/7
Noise Level: Lower overnight—fewer departures between midnight-5 AM
Foot Traffic: Reduced compared to Concourses D and F
Best For: International travelers who prefer staying in their departure concourse overnight

Terminal 3: Best Free Sleep Locations

Concourse G Quiet Gates

Location: Terminal 3, Concourse G (post-security)
Seating Type: Standard gate seating
Noise Level: Lower due to fewer overnight departures
Foot Traffic: Less overall traffic compared to Terminal 1
Best For: Terminal 3 passengers seeking quieter gate area
Note: Fewer designated rest zones compared to Terminal 1—gate seating is primary option

Gate Area B24-C32

Location: Terminal 3, between Concourses B and C (post-security)
Seating Type: Moderate comfort gate seating
Noise Level: Standard gate announcements
Outlets: Available at most seating clusters
Best For: Travelers with flights in this area wanting to stay near their gate

The Reality of Free Terminal Sleep: What to Expect

Physical Comfort: Expect discomfort—even best rest zones aren’t designed for extended sleeping. Armrest-free benches still involve hard surfaces and awkward positions.

Temperature: Bring layers—terminals maintain cool temperatures for ventilation systems and to discourage loitering.

Sleep Quality: Light rest only. PA announcements, cleaning crews, and travelers will interrupt any deep sleep attempts.

Safety: Generally safe near other travelers and security cameras. Keep valuables secured to your body.

Realistic Duration: 60-90 minute rest intervals are achievable; 4-6 hours of continuous sleep is unlikely in free terminal zones.

Sleep strategy depends entirely on layover length, budget, and your tolerance for discomfort. Use the options below to select the appropriate option.

Layover Length	Best Plan Inside YYZ	Best Plan If Leaving YYZ	Best For
0–2 hours	Stay in terminal, eat quickly, charge devices	Usually not worth it	Tight connections
2–4 hours	Find quiet seating, use rest zones, lounge if eligible	Only if very close and light security	Quick reset before next flight
4–6 hours	Lounge access (2–3 hours), structured rest + walk, work zones	Day use hotel if shower is priority	Business travelers, productivity focus
6+ hours	Eat + rest + walk routine, lounge options, quiet zones	Day use hotel near Toronto airport with shuttle	Real sleep, guaranteed shower, privacy
12+ hours (overnight)	Challenging (cold, bright, announcements)	Toronto airport transit hotel	Overnight layover comfort and rest

Layovers 4-6 Hours: When to Use Lounges for Sleep

Lounge access provides marginal but meaningful improvements over free terminal sleeping: quieter environments, more comfortable seating, climate control, and fewer public announcements.

1. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges (Terminal 1)

Domestic Lounge (Near Gate D20)

Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to midnight daily
Access: Business class, Air Canada elite status, or guest pass ($59 typical)
Sleep Amenities: Comfortable lounge chairs, quieter zones separated from main lounge area, dimmer lighting in rest zones (but NOT completely dark)
Additional Value: Shower facilities, hot food, beverages, WiFi, work stations
Best For: 4-6 hour domestic layovers where shower + quiet rest combo provides value
Sleep Reality: Better than gate seating but NO sleeping beds or YYZ pods—expect improved comfort in lounge chairs, not guaranteed deep sleep

International Lounge (Node F, Level 3)

Operating Hours: 4:30 AM to 10:30-11:00 PM (varies by day)
Access: Business class, Star Alliance elite status, or guest pass ($59 typical)
Sleep Amenities: Similar to domestic location—comfortable seating in quieter zones
Best For: International travelers with existing lounge access or those willing to pay for shower + food + quiet environment
Note: Closes by 11 PM most nights—not suitable for overnight layovers requiring rest past midnight

2. Plaza Premium Lounges (Both Terminals)

Plaza Premium operates 5 locations across both terminals with varying hours and amenities. None include sleeping pods or beds, but all provide quieter environments than gate areas.

Pricing: $59 for 2 hours, $96 for 4 hours (typical), extended packages available
Sleep Setup: Lounge chairs and sofas—more comfortable than gate seating but not horizontal sleeping surfaces
Quiet Zones: Most locations feature designated quiet areas with reduced announcements
Best For: Travelers willing to pay for shower access + improved rest environment during 4-6 hour layovers
Value Calculation: At $96 for 4 hours, lounges make sense IF you’ll use shower, food, and work space—less valuable if only seeking sleep

✓ Important reminder: Lounges do NOT include formal sleeping beds. If your primary need is guaranteed horizontal sleep, day-use hotels provide better value for 6+ hour layovers.

Layovers 6+ Hours

When a Day-Use Hotel Becomes the Smarter Investment

Beyond 6 hours, or for any overnight layover, hotels deliver exponentially better value than attempting terminal sleep or extended lounge stays.

5 Ways Day Use Hotels Win for a Long Layover Toronto Airport

See how to book a day use hotel room.

1. Real beds — Horizontal sleeping surface vs. upright chairs/recliners
2. Privacy — Door that closes, no public announcements, no strangers walking past
3. Guaranteed shower — Private bathroom, unlimited time, no capacity restrictions
4. Temperature control — Set your preferred room temperature vs. cold terminal air
5. Actual sleep — Dark room, quiet environment, 3-5 hours of continuous rest achievable

International Connections at YYZ

For travelers connecting between domestic and international flights, or arriving internationally and continuing domestically, understanding customs and immigration timing is critical.

International Arrivals & Connections

Terminal 1 primarily handles international arrivals through Concourse E (Gates E67–E81). Terminal 3 handles most other international flights. Upon arrival on an international flight, you must clear Canadian customs and immigration (CBSA and IRCC).

If you checked baggage, collect your bags, clear customs, and re-check bags for your next flight. You then exit to landside, re-enter through security, and proceed to your connecting flight’s concourse.

Minimum buffer time for international-to-domestic connections: 90–120 minutes under normal circumstances. During peak hours or if lines are slow, 2 hours is safer. US Transborder (pre-clearance) passengers in Terminal 1 Concourse F must complete US customs before boarding, and once cleared, cannot leave that secured concourse area.

For international-to-international connections, some routings allow staying airside (no customs clearance), but this depends on your specific airlines and airports. Verify with your airline during booking or at check-in. When in doubt, assume you’ll need to clear customs and budget accordingly.

More Airport Layover Guides

Planning connections through other major airports? We’ve created detailed guides for:

Miami International Airport (MIA)
Navigate MIA’s three terminals, find lounge showers, discover the best sleep zones, and learn when the Skytrain saves 20+ minutes during tight connections.

​JFK Airport (New York)

Each guide includes terminal layouts, verified shower locations, free and paid sleep options, and realistic layover plans by duration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you shower at Toronto Pearson?

Toronto Pearson has no public showers. Buy a lounge day pass for access, like Air Canada Maple Leaf or Plaza Premium starting at $59 for 2 hours. Or get a GoodLife Fitness day pass for $25 CAD in Terminal 1 landside. You can also leave for a nearby hotel.

• Check if the lounge has showers before you pay—not all do.
• Be Relax and Wellbeing spas in Terminal 3 offer showers with wellness services.

Are there nap pods at Toronto Pearson?

No, Toronto Pearson lacks traditional sleeping pods or nap pods as of 2024–2025. The CIBC Energy Pods in Terminal 1 landside (Area 15) are just ergonomic recliners for sitting, reading, or light relaxation.

• For real sleep, try lounges with comfy seating.
• Book a day-use hotel room with HotelsByDay and help reduce jet lag symptoms.

Where can I sleep during a long layover Toronto Airport?

For free sleep to help survive a long layover, use Terminal 1’s rest zone in Area 15 landside. It has Muskoka chairs and benches without armrests.

• For 4–6 hour layovers, lounges like Air Canada Maple Leaf or Plaza Premium offer quieter spots.
• For 6+ hours, choose a day use hotel room with HotelsByDay.
• Terminal sleep means light rest only—it’s cold, bright, and noisy.

What should I do during a 6+ hour layover at Toronto Pearson?

Structure your time: eat and reset (1 hour), choose one priority (shower, sleep, or focused work), allocate time for that activity (2–3 hours in lounge or rest zone), walk and decompress (30 minutes), and buffer time before your flight (30 minutes). If you need guaranteed sleep, shower, and privacy, a day-use hotel provides the best reset for 3–11 hour blocks. For business travelers, lounge access with work zones and showers typically offers excellent value.

Is it worth leaving YYZ during a layover?

Yes, if you have 6+ hours and 2–3 hours buffer for security. A day-use hotel near Pearson is simple for shower and sleep—it skips extra lines and walking.

• To see Toronto, take the Union Pearson Express train downtown in 25 minutes.
• Always check weather, traffic, and security waits first.

How do I get between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3?

The free LINK train runs 24/7 between terminals, departing every 4–8 minutes. Ride time is 4–8 minutes depending on time of day. Both terminals are served. No ticket required; simply follow signage to the train platform. The connection is fully climate-controlled and accessible.

Where are all the lounges at Toronto Pearson by terminal?

Terminal 1 lounges include Air Canada Maple Leaf (Domestic near D20, International at Node F), and Plaza Premium (Domestic Level 3 Check-In, International Near Gate E77—temporarily closed, USA Transborder Near Gate F55), and various airline lounges. Terminal 3 features Plaza Premium Landmark (International, Gate C32, flagship), Plaza Premium (Domestic/International near B24), American Airlines Admirals Club, Air France KLM Lounge, and Aspire Lounge. Consult Toronto Pearson’s official website for complete lounge directory, current access requirements, and hours.

What’s the simplest reset plan for a 60–90 minute layover?

Focus on one thing. Start with 10 minutes to hydrate and eat.

• Then choose: work in Terminal 1 Gates D20–D30 or CIBC Energy Pod area with good seats; quiet rest for 10 minutes with eyes closed; or a quick 10-minute walk.
• Re-check your gate on the board.
• If you have lounge access, use it for better focus or quiet.
• Skip the gate area—it’s crowded and noisy.

Can I store luggage at Toronto Pearson?

Yes, you can.

Official storage is at Terminal 1 Arrivals level from 5 AM–11 PM and Terminal 3 Check-in hall from 5 AM–9 PM via Excess Baggage Company.

• Rates: $20 CAD for 8 hours, $25 for 24 hours, $35 for 48 hours, $10 per extra day.
• This lets you leave without bags during long layovers.
• Third-party options like LuggageHero, Bounce, or Stasher offer hourly rates too.

Day-Use Hotels for Long YYZ Layovers

Not every layover has to be uncomfortable. If you have a few hours to work with, a day-use hotel is one of the simplest ways to get real rest, privacy, and a proper shower, things the terminal rarely provides. HotelsByDay makes it possible to book a room for just the hours you need, so you can reset and head back to your next flight feeling significantly better.