Is Truro a good stop?

Yes, it is centrally located and serves as a gateway to the rest of Nova Scotia.

How long is the drive?

It takes about 17 hours of driving time.

Truro has many hotels and motels located right off the highway.

Yes, the Trans-Canada Highway is well-maintained.

What is the best route?

The Trans-Canada Highway is the most direct and reliable route.

Lancaster

Truro

Driving

Lancaster to Truro

Updated: 28 May 2026

Truro, known as the Hub of Nova Scotia, is a central transit point for travelers entering the province. From Lancaster, you will follow the Trans-Canada Highway through Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick. The route covers roughly 1,550 kilometers and typically requires two days of driving for safety. You will pass through major cities like Montreal, Quebec City, and Moncton before reaching the Nova Scotia border at Amherst.

Total Distance: 1,550 km driving distance; 1,200 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the primary practical method, taking about 17 hours of pure driving time.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this distance.

Compare Lancaster to Truro Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

17 hours

Avg Price

$300-$450 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 401 to Highway 20 to Trans-Canada Highway 104.

The Cobequid Pass is a major artery leading into Truro; check for construction updates.

Travel Tips

Overnight Stops
Plan to stay in Quebec City or Edmundston to break up the long drive.
Highway 20
Highway 20 in Quebec is the main route; be prepared for heavy traffic near Montreal.
Border Crossing
There is no border crossing, but be prepared for potential agricultural checks when entering Nova Scotia.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent cell service in remote parts of New Brunswick.
Coffee Stops
Tim Hortons locations are frequent along the Trans-Canada Highway for quick breaks.

Safety Tips

Speed Limits
Strictly follow speed limits, especially in small towns where limits drop suddenly.
Night Driving
Avoid driving at night in New Brunswick due to high moose activity.
Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure before leaving, as temperature changes across provinces can affect it.
Rest Areas
Use official highway rest areas to stretch your legs every 3 hours.