Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Timmins gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from YTS to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi/Ride-share, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside YTS
Three things to verify before you walk out of YTS:
- Can you legally enter Canada? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi/Ride-share, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Timmins/Victor M. Power to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Timmins/Victor M. Power into town:
- Taxi/Ride-share: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Timmins, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at YTS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Timmins for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Timmins, two standouts are:
- Timmins Museum: NEC & Shania Twain Centre — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Gillies Lake Promenade — Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside YTS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Timmins Airport Gift Shop
- Airport Observation & Wi-Fi Area
Best Bites Near YTS
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Timmins: The Fishbowl Restaurant and Gyro Grill Timmins. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Flight Deck Restaurant or Flight Deck Coffee & Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YTS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
WiFi at YTS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Canada and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Timmins genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.