Is Ottawa worth visiting?

Yes, it is the cultural and political heart of Canada.

How do I get from the airport to downtown?

Take the OC Transpo bus or a taxi/rideshare.

Can I drive to Ottawa?

Yes, it is a 15-hour drive from Chester Basin.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is the most efficient for time-sensitive travelers.

Are there trains to Ottawa?

You can take a train from Montreal or Toronto, but not from Nova Scotia.

Chester Basin

Ottawa

Flight Driving

Chester Basin to Ottawa

Updated: 30 May 2026

Reaching Ottawa from Chester Basin is best achieved by flying from Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW). The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours. If you prefer driving, the journey covers 1,450 km via the Trans-Canada Highway, taking roughly 15 hours. You will pass through New Brunswick, Quebec, and finally into Ontario. Ottawa, the nation's capital, offers a wealth of museums and government landmarks.

Total Distance: 1,450 km driving distance; 1,050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Halifax is the fastest, taking under 4 hours total including airport time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper for families or groups sharing fuel costs.

Compare Chester Basin to Ottawa Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1.5 hours	15 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $600 CAD	$250 - $350 CAD in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YHZ to YOW	Trans-Canada Hwy 2 to Hwy 417
Tip	Book in advance to secure lower fares on direct flights.	Plan for an overnight stop in Quebec City or Montreal.

Travel Tips

Public Transit
Use the O-Train (LRT) to navigate between major tourist attractions efficiently.
Museum Passes
Purchase a museum pass to save money if you plan to visit multiple national institutions.
Weather
Ottawa experiences extreme temperature swings; check the forecast before packing.
Biking
Ottawa has an extensive network of bike paths along the canal and river.
Dining
Explore the restaurants on Elgin Street for a variety of local and international cuisine.

Safety Tips

Winter Safety
Be careful on icy sidewalks near the canal during winter months.
Emergency
Dial 911 for all emergency services.
Night Safety
Stick to well-lit areas in the ByWard Market at night.
Driving
Traffic on the 417 highway can be heavy during rush hour; plan accordingly.