Is Windsor near the US border?

Yes, it is directly across the river from Detroit, Michigan.

How long does it take to drive?

It takes approximately 17 hours of driving time.

VIA Rail offers service from Toronto to Windsor, but not from New Brunswick.

What is the best time to travel?

Summer is best to avoid winter storms on the 401.

Only if you take the 407 ETR in the Toronto area.

Windsor

Flight Driving

Carlingford to Windsor

Updated: 29 May 2026

The trip from Carlingford to Windsor is a 1,600-kilometer trek across the breadth of Southern Ontario. Driving is the most common method, taking approximately 17 hours via the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 401. You will traverse the entire length of Ontario, passing major cities like Toronto and London. Flying is an alternative, though it usually requires a connection through Toronto Pearson.

Total Distance: 1,600 km driving distance; 1,400 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Fredericton to Windsor via Toronto takes 6 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is significantly cheaper than flying for this distance.

Compare Carlingford to Windsor Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	17 hours
Avg Price	$600 - $1,000	$350 - $450 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YFC to YQG via YYZ.	Route 2 to Highway 401 West.
Tip	Windsor International Airport (YQG) is small and easy to navigate.	Windsor is the southernmost city in Canada; expect warmer temperatures than in New Brunswick.

Travel Tips

Border Crossing
If you plan to visit Detroit, ensure you have your passport ready for the border crossing.
Traffic
The 401 near Windsor can be busy; check for construction updates before you leave.
Resting
Plan for at least one overnight stop in the Toronto or London area.
Fuel
Keep your tank at least half full when driving through remote stretches of Northern New Brunswick.
Apps
Use Waze for real-time traffic alerts on the 401.