Flight
Driving
Ottawa to Sudbury
Updated: 30 May 2026
Sudbury is located 650 kilometers from Ottawa. The most direct route is via Highway 17, the Trans-Canada Highway. Flying is a faster alternative, with direct flights available from Ottawa International Airport. Known for its mining history and the Big Nickel, Sudbury is a hub of Northern Ontario. The drive takes approximately 7.5 hours through scenic landscapes. Be prepared for long stretches without services.
Total Distance: 650 km driving, 450 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is the fastest, taking about 1.25 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective for groups.
Compare Ottawa to Sudbury Routes
|
Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hour 15 mins | 7 hours 30 mins |
| Avg Price | 300-600 CAD | 120-180 CAD |
| Operator | Porter Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | YOW to YSB. | Highway 17 West (Trans-Canada Highway). |
| Tip | Flights are limited; book well in advance. | Highway 17 is a two-lane road for much of the way. |
Travel Tips
-
FuelFill up your tank in larger towns along Highway 17.
-
WildlifeWatch for moose and deer on the road, especially at dawn/dusk.
-
ConnectivityCell service can be spotty in remote areas.
-
BookingBook flights early for better rates.
-
NavigationDownload offline maps for the drive.
Safety Tips
-
Highway SafetyPass with caution on two-lane sections.
-
WeatherCheck weather reports before winter travel.
-
EmergencyKeep a winter survival kit in your car.
-
VisibilityUse headlights during all daylight hours.
People Also Ask
-
Is Sudbury far from Ottawa?Yes, it is a long drive through Northern Ontario.
-
Can I take a train?No, there is no direct rail service.
-
Is the flight direct?Yes, Porter offers direct flights.
-
How long is the drive?Approximately 7.5 hours.
-
Are there tolls?No, Highway 17 is free.
Quick Info
- From Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- To Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Summer for outdoor activities and lake visits.
Things to Do in Sudbury
1
Science North
An interactive science museum located on the shores of Ramsey Lake.
2
Dynamic Earth
Explore the underground mining history of the region.
3
The Big Nickel
A massive replica of a Canadian coin and a local landmark.
4
Killarney Provincial Park
A short drive away, offering stunning hiking and canoeing.
Tags
Ottawa to Sudbury
drive to Sudbury
fly to Sudbury
Sudbury travel
Highway 17
Northern Ontario road trip
Ottawa to Sudbury distance
travel to Sudbury
