Pickering
Pickering
Montreal
Montreal
Train Driving

Pickering to Montreal

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Pickering to Montreal covers approximately 550 kilometers. By car, you will take Highway 401 East, which turns into Highway 20 in Quebec, a drive of about 5.5 to 6 hours. VIA Rail offers a direct train service from Oshawa or Guildwood station. Montreal is a vibrant city known for its French culture, historic Old Montreal, and incredible food scene. This is a major inter-provincial route connecting Ontario and Quebec.

Total Distance: 550 km driving distance; 450 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
VIA Rail is the most comfortable and consistent method.
Cheapest Way
Driving is generally cheaper if traveling with multiple passengers.
Compare Pickering to Montreal Routes
Train
Direct
Driving
Direct
Duration 5.5 hours 6 hours
Avg Price 80-150 CAD 70-100 CAD
Operator VIA Rail Personal Vehicle
Route Corridor Route Highway 401 East to 20 East
Tip Book in advance to secure the best fares on VIA Rail. Be prepared for tolls on some bridges entering Montreal.
Travel Tips
  • VIA Rail Booking
    Use the VIA Rail website to find discounted 'Escape' fares.
  • Highway 401
    The 401 is very busy; try to leave early in the morning to avoid traffic.
  • Language
    French is the primary language in Montreal; learning a few basic phrases is helpful.
  • Montreal Transit
    The STM metro system is excellent and the best way to get around the city.
  • Weather
    Montreal winters are very cold; pack appropriate clothing if traveling between November and March.
Safety Tips
  • Highway Safety
    Long-distance driving requires regular breaks to stay alert.
  • Train Safety
    Keep your luggage secure and be aware of your surroundings at the station.
  • Winter Driving
    Highway 401 and 20 can be treacherous in winter; check road conditions before leaving.
  • Emergency
    Keep an emergency kit in your car, including water and blankets.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train from Pickering?
    You need to go to Oshawa or Guildwood station to catch the VIA Rail train.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 5.5 to 6 hours depending on traffic.
  • Is Montreal worth visiting?
    Yes, it is a vibrant city with a unique culture and many historic sites.
  • Can I fly?
    Yes, you can fly from Pearson Airport to Montreal, but it is often more expensive.
  • Is the 401 safe?
    It is a major highway and generally safe, but stay alert for heavy truck traffic.
Quick Info
  • From Pickering, Ontario, Canada
  • To Montreal, Quebec, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Summer for festivals or Autumn for fall foliage.

Things to Do in Montreal
1
Old Montreal
A historic district with cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and the Notre-Dame Basilica.
2
Mount Royal Park
A large park designed by the same architect as Central Park, offering great city views.
3
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
One of the most prominent museums in Canada, featuring a vast collection of art.
4
Jean-Talon Market
A massive open-air market with local produce, cheeses, and specialty foods.
Tags
Pickering to Montreal VIA Rail to Montreal driving to Montreal Highway 401 Highway 20 Quebec travel Pickering to Montreal distance Montreal travel guide