Is there a direct bus from Picton to Montreal?

No, you must take a local shuttle to Belleville or Kingston first.

How long is the train ride?

The train from Belleville to Montreal takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic route within Canada.

Yes, it is one of the busiest highways in North America.

What is the best way to travel?

VIA Rail is the most comfortable, while driving offers the most flexibility.

Picton

Montreal

Train Driving

Picton to Montreal

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Picton to Montreal covers approximately 350 kilometers through the scenic corridor of Eastern Ontario. Most travelers drive north to Belleville to access the major transit arteries. You can take the VIA Rail train from the Belleville station directly into Montreal's Gare Centrale. Driving involves taking Highway 401 East, which is the primary freight and passenger route connecting the two provinces. The trip typically takes four hours by car, depending on traffic near the Ontario-Quebec border.

Total Distance: 350 km driving distance; 310 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking 4 hours under optimal traffic conditions.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest if traveling with more than one person, costing roughly $70 in fuel.

Compare Picton to Montreal Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	4 hours
Avg Price	$80-$150	$60-$90 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Belleville Station to Montreal Gare Centrale.	Highway 49 to Highway 401 East through Kingston and Cornwall.
Tip	Book at least two weeks in advance for the best Escape fare pricing.	Avoid the 401 during Friday afternoon rush hour near the Quebec border.

Travel Tips

Language
Montreal is bilingual, but knowing basic French phrases is helpful.
Parking
Street parking in downtown Montreal is expensive; use underground garages.
Transit
The STM metro system is efficient and covers most tourist areas.
Tolls
There are no tolls on the 401, but check for bridge tolls near Montreal.
Connectivity
VIA Rail offers free Wi-Fi on most trains between Belleville and Montreal.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Highway 401 can be treacherous in snow; ensure your vehicle has winter tires.
Pedestrian Safety
Montreal drivers are aggressive; always use crosswalks and wait for signals.
Emergency
Dial 911 for all emergency services in both Ontario and Quebec.
Vehicle Security
Do not leave valuables in your car when parked in public lots.