How long is the train ride?

The train from Toronto to Kingston takes about 2.5 hours.

Is there a direct flight?

No, you must fly to Toronto or Ottawa first.

What is the best way to travel?

Driving is the most flexible, while the train is the most comfortable.

The 401 is free, but the 407 ETR is a toll road.

Is Kingston worth visiting?

Yes, it is a historic city with a vibrant waterfront.

Fort Frances

Kingston

Train Driving

Fort Frances to Kingston

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Fort Frances to Kingston is one of the longest domestic routes in Ontario, spanning over 2,200 kilometers. Driving is the most direct method, taking you across the entire province via the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 401. For those who prefer not to drive, flying from Thunder Bay to Toronto and taking a VIA Rail train to Kingston is the most comfortable option. Kingston is a historic city located at the confluence of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. It is famous for its limestone buildings and proximity to the Thousand Islands.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 2,200 km; straight-line air distance is 1,500 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Thunder Bay to Toronto, then taking the train to Kingston.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel combined with regional transit is the most budget-friendly.

Compare Fort Frances to Kingston Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	14 hours (from Toronto)	26 hours driving time
Avg Price	$500 - $800	$380 - $550 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Flight to Toronto, then VIA Rail from Union Station to Kingston.	Highway 11/17 to Highway 400, then Highway 401 East.
Tip	Book VIA Rail tickets in advance for the best fares.	The 401 East from Toronto to Kingston is a major, high-traffic corridor.

Travel Tips

VIA Rail
VIA Rail offers comfortable seating and Wi-Fi, making the train ride productive.
Traffic
Highway 401 between Toronto and Kingston can experience heavy congestion.
Accommodation
Stay in the downtown area to be within walking distance of major attractions.
Navigation
Use a GPS with real-time traffic updates for the 401 stretch.
Booking
Book your train tickets at least two weeks in advance to save money.

Safety Tips

Highway 401
Stay in the right lane if you are not comfortable with high-speed traffic.
Winter Driving
Be prepared for lake-effect snow when driving near Kingston in winter.
Emergency Kit
Keep a fully charged power bank for your phone in case of emergencies.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks at ONroute service centers to stay refreshed.