Port Hawkesbury
Port Hawkesbury
Windsor
Windsor
Flight Driving

Port Hawkesbury to Windsor

Updated: 30 May 2026

Traveling from Port Hawkesbury to Windsor covers over 2,100 km across the Trans-Canada Highway. The most practical route involves driving through New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario. Alternatively, you can fly from Halifax Stanfield International Airport to Windsor International Airport with a connection in Toronto. This journey traverses the heart of Atlantic and Central Canada. Expect significant changes in terrain from the coastal Maritimes to the industrial Great Lakes region.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 2,150 km; straight-line air distance is 1,780 km.
Fastest Way
Flying from Halifax is the fastest, taking roughly 7 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with multiple passengers.
Compare Port Hawkesbury to Windsor Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 7 hours 22 hours
Avg Price $600-$900 $350-$500 in fuel
Operator Air Canada Personal Vehicle
Route YHZ to YQG via YYZ Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 104, 20, 401)
Tip Book your flight from Halifax as Port Hawkesbury has no commercial airport. Plan for an overnight stop in Quebec City to break up the long drive.
Travel Tips
  • Fuel Stops
    Fill up in New Brunswick as gas prices are often lower than in Quebec.
  • Time Zones
    Remember you will cross from Atlantic Time to Eastern Time during your trip.
  • Highway 401
    Expect heavy traffic near Toronto; try to pass through outside of rush hours.
  • Roadside Assistance
    Ensure your CAA membership is active for long-distance driving.
  • Booking Flights
    Use the Halifax airport for the best connection options to Windsor.
Safety Tips
  • Winter Driving
    Avoid driving through Northern New Brunswick in winter without winter tires.
  • Fatigue Management
    Switch drivers every 4 hours to maintain alertness on the highway.
  • Wildlife
    Watch for moose on the highways in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick at dusk.
  • Emergency Kit
    Carry a fully stocked emergency kit including blankets and water.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to Windsor?
    Yes, VIA Rail operates service to Windsor from Toronto.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes approximately 22 hours of pure driving time.
  • Are there tolls?
    There are no major tolls on the Trans-Canada Highway route.
  • Can I fly from Port Hawkesbury?
    No, you must travel to Halifax for commercial flights.
  • What is the best route?
    The Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 104 to 20 to 401) is the standard route.
Quick Info
  • From Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • To Windsor, Ontario, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

September to October for fall foliage along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Things to Do in Windsor
1
Cape Breton Highlands
Explore the scenic Cabot Trail before departing Port Hawkesbury. It offers stunning coastal views.
2
Quebec City Old Town
Stop here during your drive to see historic fortifications. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3
Windsor Riverfront
Walk along the Detroit River to see the skyline of Detroit. It is a beautiful park space.
4
Jackson Park
Visit the Queen Elizabeth II Sunken Garden in Windsor. It is a local horticultural highlight.
Tags
Port Hawkesbury to Windsor travel driving Nova Scotia to Ontario flights from Halifax to Windsor cross-Canada road trip best way to travel NS to ON traveling across Canada Port Hawkesbury transport Windsor travel guide