Sleeping inside or in nearby hotels at YYZ Airport

  Overnight layover guide: sleeping options in the public area and the boarding area

Toronto Pearson Airport operates 24 hours a day and, due to its volume of international connections, it is very common to find passengers spending the night in its facilities. Although security staff are generally tolerant of travellers sleeping in the terminals, they may ask to see your flight itinerary or boarding pass during the night.

Recommended rest areas

Comfort varies significantly between terminals and between public and airside areas:

• Terminal 1: On the arrivals level (Ground Floor), there are padded benches without armrests that are highly sought after. On the check-in level (Level 3), you can find seating behind the check-in counters in quieter areas. There is also a designated “Rest Area” near the multi-faith chapel with seating designed for greater comfort.
• Terminal 3: The arrivals level is usually quieter than departures for overnight stays. There are wooden benches and some metal ones, although many have armrests that make lying down difficult.
• Airside areas: If you have already passed security, gates A6–A8 and C34 in Terminal 1 are known for having more suitable seating for resting.

Tips for a better stay

To ensure at least some rest, consider the following environmental conditions:

• Temperature: Air conditioning is often quite strong, so it is advisable to have a blanket, warm clothing or even a light sleeping bag.
• Lighting and noise: The terminals remain brightly lit, and information screens along with public announcements are constant. An eye mask and earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones are recommended.
• Security: The airport is generally safe and has constant surveillance, but it is always advisable to keep belongings secure or use luggage storage services before sleeping.

Services available overnight

If you need food or basic services during the night, the airport offers round-the-clock options:

• 24-hour dining: In Terminal 1, you can find 7-Eleven (International Arrivals) and several Tim Hortons and Starbucks outlets. In Terminal 3, Tim Hortons and Subway also operate continuously.
• Hygiene and showers: There are no free public showers. However, you can access them for a fee at the GoodLife Fitness gym (Terminal 1, arrivals level) or within airport lounges (which typically close overnight, usually between 12:00 am and 5:00 am).
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is free and unlimited throughout the airport. There are numerous charging stations and power outlets, especially near seating areas at the gates.

Accommodation alternatives

If you prefer full and private rest, the Sheraton Gateway Hotel is directly connected to Terminal 3, and the ALT Hotel is accessible via the free Terminal Link train (Viscount station). Both offer soundproofed rooms ideal for short stays between flights.

 Hotels

The airport offers accommodation options located within its premises, as well as a wide range of nearby hotels that make it easier for passengers in transit or with early morning flights to stay overnight.

Sheraton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport

This is the only hotel located entirely within the airport, with direct pedestrian access to Terminal 3. For those in Terminal 1, the free Terminal Link train connects to the hotel in just a few minutes.

• Services: Soundproofed rooms with double-glazed windows and runway views, a 24-hour fitness centre, heated indoor pool and a full-service business centre.
• Dining: Home to the &More restaurant, offering internationally inspired cuisine in a relaxed setting for working or unwinding.
• Additional benefits: Guests staying in Sheraton Club rooms have access to an exclusive lounge with complimentary breakfast and refreshments.

ALT Hotel Toronto Pearson

Located within the airport grounds, it sits at the end of the Terminal Link train line, at Viscount station. It is a modern, design-focused option offering excellent value for money without leaving the airport complex.

• Access: The journey on the free train from Terminals 1 and 3 takes between 2 and 6 minutes.
• Features: Free high-speed Wi-Fi, fitness centre and a 24-hour healthy grab-and-go food concept available in the lobby.

Nearby hotels and transfers

Numerous international chain hotels are located around the airport, offering complimentary shuttle services for their guests. Pick-up points for these shuttles are clearly signposted:

• Terminal 1: Ground floor, Door E.
• Terminal 3: Arrivals level, Doors B and G.

Notable nearby hotels include the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites, Marriott Toronto Airport, Crowne Plaza Toronto Airport, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Toronto International Airport and the Westin Toronto Airport.

To find the option that best suits your needs and budget, you can check availability and make reservations through specialised platforms such as Booking.com, always verifying the actual distance and shuttle frequency before confirming your stay.