Pickering
Pickering
Ottawa
Ottawa
Train Driving

Pickering to Ottawa

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Pickering to Ottawa covers approximately 450 kilometers. By car, you will take Highway 401 East to Highway 416 North, a drive of about 4.5 to 5 hours. VIA Rail offers a comfortable train service, though you must travel to Oshawa or Guildwood station to board. Ottawa is the capital of Canada, known for Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal. This is a major inter-city route connecting the GTA to the nation's capital.

Total Distance: 450 km driving distance; 350 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 Ottawa Routes
Train
Direct
Driving
Direct
Duration 4.5 hours 5 hours
Avg Price 60-120 CAD 50-80 CAD
Operator VIA Rail Personal Vehicle
Route Corridor Route Highway 401 East to 416 North
Tip Book in advance to secure the best fares on VIA Rail. Stop in Kingston for a break; it is roughly the halfway point.
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.
  • Halfway Point
    Kingston is a great place to stop for lunch and stretch your legs.
  • Ottawa Transit
    The O-Train (LRT) is the best way to get around downtown Ottawa.
  • Weather
    Ottawa 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 416 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 4.5 to 5 hours depending on traffic.
  • Is Ottawa worth visiting?
    Yes, it is the capital city and has many museums and historic sites.
  • Can I fly?
    Yes, you can fly from Pearson Airport to Ottawa, 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 Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Summer for festivals or Autumn for fall foliage.

Things to Do in Ottawa
1
Parliament Hill
The seat of Canada's government, featuring stunning Gothic architecture and daily ceremonies.
2
Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage site that is perfect for boating in summer and skating in winter.
3
ByWard Market
A historic market district filled with shops, restaurants, and local artisans.
4
Canadian Museum of History
Located across the river in Gatineau, it offers an incredible look at Canada's past.
Tags
Pickering to Ottawa VIA Rail to Ottawa driving to Ottawa Highway 401 Highway 416 Ontario travel Pickering to Ottawa distance capital city travel