Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Waterloo gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from YKF to the city takes roughly 100 minutes by Grand River Transit (GRT) Bus & ION Light Rail, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside YKF
Before heading into Waterloo, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Waterloo is roughly 100 minutes from YKF via Grand River Transit (GRT) Bus & ION Light Rail. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Waterloo
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Waterloo, two standouts are:
- St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market & Village — Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
- Uptown Waterloo — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YKF, check out Relax in the Main Terminal or The Landing Strip Restaurant (Cafe & Bar) to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In Waterloo
If you make it into town, The Bauer Kitchen is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Gilt Restaurant.
Inside YKF
If you’re staying in the terminal, The Landing Strip Restaurant (Main Dining) is your main option. The Landing Strip Restaurant (Quick Bites Counter) works too if you want something quick.
Getting from YKF to Waterloo
From YKF, the Grand River Transit (GRT) Bus & ION Light Rail gets you to Waterloo in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Grand River Transit (GRT) Bus & ION Light Rail offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Waterloo:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Waterloo, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at YKF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Waterloo itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at YKF 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.
Need a Nap? Options at YKF
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YKF, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Waterloo 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.