Here’s how to get around downtown Toronto during TIFF

As we all know, the bane of a Torontonian’s existence is traffic. Not quite as bad as NYC, but definitely up there. With the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) back in full swing this month, there’s no doubt that traffic will reach new levels of chaos. The influx of film enthusiasts, celebrities, and industry professionals, combined with road closures and increased security around festival venues, will make getting around the city more challenging than ever. Whether you’re heading to Roy Thomson Hall for a premiere or exploring Festival Street, the streets will be buzzing with excitement and congestion. Save yourself the pain and heartache, and take our advice on how to navigate the city during TIFF. From leveraging public transit to biking and ridesharing, our tips will help you bypass the gridlock and fully enjoy all that TIFF 2024 has to offer.

If you guessed it, driving is typically not the best option:

These are the best ways to get around downtown Toronto during TIFF

Rideshare

It will get you from point A to B, and even C or D. If you’re looking for something on a budget (and have time to spare), you can take the Shared rides, or even class it up a notch with a black car option. One Canadian-owned optioned (because why not support local), is HOVR and CHAUFFR. But, there’s also options like Lyft Lux, Lux Black or Lux Black XL if you’re feeling bougie – or the rideshare alternative that we all know and loathe for their marked up prices, long wait times and driver cancellations…you guessed it, Uber. Keep an eye out for designated drop off locations are there are certain road closures, especially around the TIFF street festival core.

Black Car

Looking to get chauffeured, or just don’t have the time to wait around for Uber? Or maybe you just want a car with some privacy so that you can swap in and out of dresses in between parties? Our top black car service providers in the city are, TrustFirstClass.com and RichmondLimo.ca.

Book a Turo Rental

Need a car to arrive in style for your upcoming TIFF party? Or maybe you just need something with a little glitz and glam to get around the city prepping for the busy season. Or maybe even just to get through all the day events and TIFF Gifting Lounges (for you industry folk)? Well, Turo has you covered. No more surprise costs, unnecessary fees, and overrated rates for your “plane jane” car rental. With Turo you can get a sweet ride at an even sweeter price — within hours! At a minimum of 3-hours before pickup, you can easily book a car in your area, or even have it delivered to you, with some options that you can even book instantly without approval. In our experience, these rentals go easier than ever so we HIGHLY recommend them.

Transit

Lets face it, although not the most glam option, in the core of all the TIFF madness, the TTC street car will still be running along King Street, so don’t dog it if you’re just trying to get across King Street during the festival. And now with the iPhone/Apple Watch transit cards being available on your phone AND the option to tap on with a credit card, it’s gotten way easier to do so. Just don’t try to ride without paying. The transit gods (aka fare enforcers) are always watching. 😉

Catch us riding around town as we prep for TIFF on our IG stories, or follow our editorial director @Mr.StevenBranco for the behind the scenes during TIFF. Know of any other hacks or options? Shoot us an email at steven@viewthevibe.com.