Is there a direct bus?

No, you must transfer in Toronto.

How far is Vaughan from Toronto?

It is approximately 30 kilometers north of downtown.

VIA Rail goes to Toronto, then you take the subway.

Yes, it is a suburban city with low crime rates.

What is the best exit?

Exit 400 at Major Mackenzie or Rutherford Road.

Chatham

Vaughan

Bus Driving

Chatham to Vaughan

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Chatham to Vaughan involves navigating the busy Highway 401 corridor toward the northern GTA. The distance is approximately 290 kilometers, usually requiring 3 hours and 15 minutes of driving time. Vaughan is home to major attractions like Canada's Wonderland and the Vaughan Mills shopping centre. While driving is the most direct method, you can also utilize intercity bus services to Toronto and connect via the TTC subway system. This route is heavily used by commuters and tourists alike.

Total Distance: 290 km driving distance; 265 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking just over 3 hours during off-peak hours.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the cheapest if booked well in advance, starting around 40 CAD.

Compare Chatham to Vaughan Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	3 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	40-80 CAD	50-70 CAD
Operator	Megabus	Personal Vehicle
Route	Chatham to Toronto Union Station, then TTC Subway Line 1 to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre.	Highway 401 East to Highway 400 North.
Tip	The subway extension makes reaching Vaughan from downtown Toronto very efficient.	Exit at Major Mackenzie Drive for central Vaughan access.

Travel Tips

Subway Access
The Vaughan Metropolitan Centre station connects directly to the TTC subway.
Traffic Alerts
Use Waze or Google Maps to monitor Highway 401 traffic in real-time.
Parking at Wonderland
Arrive early to secure parking closer to the main gates.
Presto Card
Load your Presto card before arriving in Toronto for subway access.
Rest Stops
Stop at the Tilbury or Woodstock ONroute for fuel and food.

Safety Tips

Highway Vigilance
Stay in the middle lanes on the 401 to avoid merging traffic.
Night Driving
Ensure your headlights are clean as the 401 has limited lighting in rural sections.
Emergency Kit
Keep a flashlight and jumper cables in your trunk.
Weather Awareness
Avoid driving during freezing rain events common in late winter.