Calgary

๐ŸŽซ

Ticketing

Details on purchasing tickets and passes for public transportation in Calgary.

Sections

1. Overview of Calgary Transit

Calgary Transit operates:

  • CTrain (Light Rail): Two lines (Red Line and Blue Line) that connect key areas of the city, including downtown, residential neighborhoods, and major landmarks.
  • Bus Network: Extensive routes covering the entire city, including feeder buses to CTrain stations.

2. Ticket Types and Costs

Calgary Transit offers several ticketing options to suit different needs. Prices are accurate as of October 2023 but may be subject to change.

Single Tickets

  • Adult (18-64 years): CAD 3.60
  • Youth (6-17 years): CAD 2.45
  • Children (5 and under): Free
  • Valid for 90 minutes on both buses and the CTrain, allowing unlimited transfers within that time.

Day Pass

  • Adult: CAD 11.25
  • Youth: CAD 8.00
  • Unlimited travel for one calendar day on buses and the CTrain.

Monthly Pass

  • Adult: CAD 112.00
  • Youth: CAD 85.00
  • Unlimited travel for the entire calendar month.

Low-Income Monthly Pass

  • Available for eligible residents with a sliding scale cost (CAD 5.60 to CAD 56.00) based on income. Applications must be submitted through the City of Calgary.

Senior Pass

  • Annual Pass for Seniors (65+): CAD 150.00
  • Low-Income Senior Pass: CAD 5.60 to CAD 56.00 annually, based on income.

Airport Boarding Pass

  • A special Airport Boarding Pass is required for Route 300 (Airport Express) in addition to a regular fare. The cost is CAD 10.80 for adults and CAD 7.75 for youth, which includes unlimited travel for 90 minutes.

3. Purchasing Tickets and Passes

Calgary Transit offers multiple convenient ways to purchase tickets and passes:

a. Mobile App

  • Download the My Fare App (available for iOS and Android).
  • Purchase single tickets, day passes, and monthly passes directly on your smartphone.
  • Activate tickets just before boarding.

b. Ticket Vending Machines

  • Located at all CTrain stations.
  • Accept cash, credit, and debit cards.
  • Purchase single tickets and day passes.

c. Retail Outlets

  • Tickets and monthly passes are available at authorized retailers, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Look for the Calgary Transit logo at participating locations.

d. Online

  • Monthly passes can be purchased online through the Calgary Transit website and mailed to your address.

e. Calgary Transit Customer Service Centres

  • Visit the Calgary Transit Customer Service Centre at downtown locations for assistance, ticket purchases, or inquiries.

4. Local Tips and Considerations

Here are some practical and cultural tips to help you navigate Calgaryโ€™s public transit system:

a. Free Fare Zone

  • The CTrain has a Free Fare Zone in downtown Calgary, running along 7th Avenue SW between City Hall and Downtown West/Kerby stations. No ticket is required to travel within this zone.

b. Transfers

  • A single ticket allows unlimited transfers between buses and the CTrain within the 90-minute validity period. Keep your ticket or proof of purchase as you may need to show it to transit officers.

c. Peak Hours

  • Calgary Transit can get busy during peak hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM). Plan your travel accordingly to avoid crowds.

d. Accessibility

  • All CTrain stations and most buses are wheelchair accessible. Priority seating is available for seniors, pregnant individuals, and those with disabilities.

e. Safety

  • Calgary Transit is generally safe, but itโ€™s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Security personnel and help phones are available at CTrain stations.

f. Weather Considerations

  • Calgary experiences cold winters, so dress warmly when waiting for buses or trains. Many CTrain stations have heated shelters.

g. Bike and Transit

  • Calgary Transit allows bikes on the CTrain (except during peak hours) and on buses equipped with bike racks. This is a great option for combining cycling with public transit.

h. Plan Your Trip

  • Use the Calgary Transit website or the Transit App to plan your route, check schedules, and get real-time updates.

5. Special Services

  • Access Calgary: A door-to-door shared-ride service for people with disabilities who cannot use regular transit. Registration and booking are required.
  • Park and Ride: Many CTrain stations have Park and Ride lots where you can park your car and take the train. Parking is free for up to 24 hours in designated lots, but some require a paid permit.

6. Alternatives to Public Transit

If public transit doesnโ€™t meet your needs, Calgary also offers:

  • Ridesharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in Calgary.
  • Car Rentals: Available at the airport and throughout the city.
  • Carsharing: Services like Communauto offer short-term car rentals.
  • Cycling: Calgary has an extensive network of bike paths, and bike rentals are available.

By understanding Calgary Transitโ€™s ticketing system and following these tips, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the city efficiently and affordably. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or a new resident, Calgaryโ€™s public transit system is a reliable and eco-friendly way to explore the city!