Yes, VIA Rail runs from Vancouver to Toronto, but it is a multi-day trip.

Is Toronto expensive?

Yes, it is one of the most expensive cities in Canada.

No, public transit is excellent.

Banff

Toronto

Flight Driving

Banff to Toronto

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Banff to Toronto is a massive 3,400-kilometer cross-country trip. Most travelers choose to fly from Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Toronto Pearson (YYZ), which takes about 4 hours. Driving is a multi-day adventure across the prairies and through Ontario.

Total Distance: 3,400 km driving distance; 2,700 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Calgary to Toronto takes 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often cheaper than the fuel and hotel costs of a 4-day drive.

Compare Banff to Toronto Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	36 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $700 CAD	$600 - $1,000 CAD
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YYC to YYZ.	Trans-Canada Highway through Regina, Winnipeg, and Thunder Bay.
Tip	Book early to secure lower fares on major carriers.	The drive through Northern Ontario is long and requires multiple overnight stops.

Travel Tips

Airport Transit
Use the UP Express train to get from Pearson Airport to downtown Toronto.
Public Transit
The TTC subway system is the most efficient way to navigate the city.
Weather
Toronto can be very humid in the summer and cold in the winter.
Events
Check for festivals like the Toronto International Film Festival before booking.
Walking
Toronto is a very walkable city; bring comfortable shoes.