How to plan transfers between buses and CTrain?

Planning transfers between buses and light rail (CTrain) in Calgary is key to getting around the city efficiently. The Calgary Transit public transportation system allows you to do this at no additional cost if you follow the rules. Below is everything you need to know about transfers, timings, and tools for a comfortable journey.

Basic transfer rules

1. 90-minute limit

Any ticket (single or via the app) is valid for unlimited transfers for 90 minutes after activation.

  • Example: If you board a bus at 10:00, you can transfer to a CTrain or another bus until 11:30 without paying extra.

2. Bus transfers

  • How to get it: Ask the driver for a transfer after paying your fare. They will give you a paper ticket with the activation time.
  • Where to use it: The transfer is valid on all modes of transport (buses, CTrain, On Demand service).

3. For CTrain

  • Ticket activation: There are ticket stamping machines at stations. The time stamped on the ticket is when your 90-minute window begins.
  • Electronic tickets: In the My Fare or Transit apps, the timer starts automatically after activation.

Planning tools

1. Transit or Moovit app

  • Features:
  • Route planning with transfers.
  • Real-time arrival times.
  • Schedule changes.
  • Example query:

2. Official Calgary Transit planner

Planner page allows you to:

  • Enter an address, station, or landmark.
  • Select departure/arrival times.
  • View transfer options.

3. Google Maps/Apple Maps

Enter your destination → select the transport icon → the system will automatically suggest the best combinations.

Tips for seamless transfers

  1. Check the CTrain direction:
  • Red Line: Somerset-Bridlewood ↔ Tuscany.
  • Blue Line: 69 Street ↔ Saddletowne. There are screens with direction information at the stations
  1. Keep an eye on the time:
  • Buses wait for CTrain up to 2 minutes at key stations (e.g., City Hall).
  • If you are running late, use the app to find alternatives.
  1. Use major transportation hubs:
  • Downtown (7th Avenue): Transfer between the Red and Blue Lines.
  • Chinook Station: Bus stop for buses 20, 23, 302.
  1. For night trips:
  • Route 300 (night bus) runs every 30 minutes. Transfers to CTrain are not possible after 1:00 a.m..

Common mistakes

  • Expired transfer: If 90 minutes have passed, you will have to buy a new ticket.
  • Incorrect activation: The electronic ticket in the My Fare app must be activated before entering the vehicle.
  • Exiting the CTrain fare zone: At stations with turnstiles (e.g., Sunridge), re-entry will require a new fare.

Conclusion

Planning transfers in Calgary is easy if you know the basic rules and use modern tools. The main thing is:

  1. Activate your ticket/transfer correctly.
  2. Keep track of the time in the apps.
  3. Use transport hubs for quick transfers.