Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer at Toronto Union Station.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 7 hours under normal traffic conditions.

Highway 401 is toll-free, but Highway 407 is a toll road.

Where do I board in Kingston?

The Kingston VIA Rail station is located at 1800 Highway 15.

Windsor is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply in the downtown core.

Windsor

Train Driving

Elginburg to Windsor

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Elginburg to Windsor spans approximately 650 kilometers across Southern Ontario. Most travelers utilize Highway 401, the primary artery connecting the two regions. You can drive the route in roughly 7 hours depending on traffic near the Greater Toronto Area. Alternatively, VIA Rail offers a comfortable train connection from nearby Kingston Station. This route traverses the heart of Canada's industrial and agricultural corridor.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance; 610 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, typically taking 7 hours without heavy traffic.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective option for groups of two or more people.

Compare Elginburg to Windsor Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours 30 mins	7 hours
Avg Price	$110-$200	$80-$120 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Kingston Station to Windsor Station via Toronto Union.	Highway 401 West through Toronto and London.
Tip	Book your tickets at least two weeks in advance to secure the best Escape fare.	Avoid the Highway 401 corridor through Toronto during rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM.

Travel Tips

Traffic Alerts
Use apps like Waze to monitor Highway 401 congestion near Mississauga.
Train Booking
Use the VIA Rail website to track discount Tuesdays for lower fares.
Rest Stops
Utilize the ONroute service centers located every 50-80 km along Highway 401.
Parking
Windsor city center offers several municipal parking garages with daily rates.
Local Transit
Transit Windsor operates buses throughout the city and connects to the VIA station.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Ensure your vehicle has winter tires if traveling between November and April.
Fatigue Management
Take a 15-minute break every 3 hours to maintain alertness on the long highway stretch.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic roadside emergency kit including jumper cables and a flashlight in your trunk.
Weather Monitoring
Check Environment Canada forecasts before departing, as lake-effect snow can impact Highway 401.