Kingston
Kingston
Drummondville
Drummondville
Train Driving

Kingston to Drummondville

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Kingston to Drummondville covers approximately 420 kilometers along the major Ontario-Quebec corridor. Most travelers utilize Highway 401 East, transitioning to Highway 20 East after crossing the provincial border near Montreal. VIA Rail offers a reliable alternative, connecting Kingston Station directly to the Drummondville Station. The drive typically takes four and a half hours depending on traffic near the Montreal bypass. This route traverses the heart of the St. Lawrence River valley, offering scenic views of rural Quebec. Expect a seamless transition between the English-speaking regions of Eastern Ontario and the Francophone culture of Central Quebec.

Total Distance: 420 km driving distance; 385 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Autoroute 30 bypass is the fastest method, taking roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one passenger, costing approximately 60-80 CAD in fuel.
Compare Kingston to Drummondville Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 5 hours 15 mins 4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price 90-150 CAD 60-80 CAD
Operator VIA Rail Personal Vehicle
Route Kingston Station to Montreal Central Station, transfer to Drummondville Station. Highway 401 East to Highway 20 East via Autoroute 30 bypass.
Tip Book at least two weeks in advance to secure the lowest Escape fare. Use the Autoroute 30 bypass to avoid heavy traffic in downtown Montreal.
Travel Tips
  • Language
    Drummondville is primarily French-speaking; learning basic phrases will enhance your experience.
  • Tolls
    Be aware that some bridges near Montreal may have tolls if you take specific routes.
  • Traffic
    Avoid the Montreal corridor during rush hours, specifically 7-9 AM and 3-6 PM.
  • VIA Rail
    Use the VIA Rail mobile app to track your train status in real-time.
  • Parking
    Most hotels in Drummondville offer free parking, unlike downtown Montreal.
Safety Tips
  • Winter Driving
    Ensure your vehicle has winter tires from December to March as per Quebec law.
  • Road Conditions
    Check Quebec 511 for real-time road closures or construction updates.
  • Emergency
    Dial 911 for any emergency services across both provinces.
  • Fatigue
    Take breaks every two hours at designated ONroute or Quebec rest stops.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct train from Kingston to Drummondville?
    No, you must transfer at Montreal Central Station.
  • How long is the drive from Kingston to Drummondville?
    It takes approximately 4.5 hours under normal traffic conditions.
  • Do I need a passport to travel between Ontario and Quebec?
    No, both are provinces within Canada and no travel documents are required.
  • What is the best highway route?
    Highway 401 East to Autoroute 30, then Highway 20 East.
  • Are there tolls on this route?
    Only if you choose specific toll bridges like the A-30 bridge.
Quick Info
  • From Kingston, Ontario, Canada
  • To Drummondville, Quebec, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

September to October for fall foliage or June for mild weather.

Tags
Kingston to Drummondville drive VIA Rail Kingston to Drummondville Highway 401 to 20 route travel from Ontario to Quebec Drummondville transport guide Kingston travel tips best way to reach Drummondville Canada intercity travel