Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer at Union Station in Toronto.

How long is the drive?

It usually takes 3 hours 45 minutes depending on traffic.

The 401 and 403 are toll-free, but the 407 is a toll road.

Is Hamilton walkable?

Downtown is walkable, but you need a car to reach the waterfalls and escarpment.

What is the best time to leave?

Leaving before 6:00 AM helps avoid the worst of the GTA traffic.

Lansdowne

Hamilton

Train Driving

Lansdowne to Hamilton

Updated: 27 May 2026

The trip from Lansdowne to Hamilton covers approximately 340 kilometers. The most practical driving route involves taking Highway 401 West to Highway 403 West. This route takes you around the western end of Lake Ontario. Alternatively, you can take the train to Toronto and transfer to the GO Train service that runs directly into Hamilton. The journey offers a mix of rural landscapes and dense urban corridors.

Total Distance: 340 km driving distance; 315 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 401 and 403 is the fastest, taking about 3 hours 45 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical choice for families or groups of two or more.

Compare Lansdowne to Hamilton Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	3 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	$90-$150	$65-$90 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail + GO Transit	Personal Vehicle
Route	Brockville to Union Station, then GO Train to Hamilton	Highway 401 West to 403 West
Tip	Check the GO Transit schedule as weekend service may differ from weekday service.	The 403 through Hamilton can be steep; ensure your brakes are in good condition.

Travel Tips

Escarpment Traffic
Traffic on the Hamilton mountain access routes can be heavy during morning and evening commutes.
Parking
Use the municipal parking lots in downtown Hamilton for affordable daily rates.
Navigation
Use GPS to navigate the complex highway interchanges near the Burlington-Hamilton border.
Weather
Hamilton can experience different weather patterns than Lansdowne due to the lake effect.
Booking
Book train tickets early to avoid price surges during holiday weekends.

Safety Tips

Steep Grades
Be mindful of the steep inclines when driving up or down the Niagara Escarpment.
Construction
Watch for road work signs on the 403, which is frequently under maintenance.
Visibility
Fog can occasionally roll in from Lake Ontario, reducing visibility on the highway.
Emergency
Keep a charged phone and power bank for long-distance travel.