How long is the drive?

It takes about 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Is there a direct train?

Yes, VIA Rail operates direct trains from Union Station.

How much is the train fare?

It varies from $50 to $90 depending on the booking time.

Yes, it is very busy, especially near Toronto.

What is the best way to travel?

VIA Rail is the most comfortable and stress-free option.

Scarborough

Kingston

Train Driving

Scarborough to Kingston

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Scarborough to Kingston covers approximately 230 kilometers. The most direct route is via Highway 401 East, which takes about 2.5 hours depending on traffic. VIA Rail also provides service from Union Station, which is a comfortable alternative. Kingston is a historic city known for its limestone architecture and proximity to the Thousand Islands. Plan for potential delays on the 401, especially near the GTA exit points.

Total Distance: 230 km driving distance; 200 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 401, provided there are no major accidents.

Cheapest Way

VIA Rail, if booked well in advance.

Compare Scarborough to Kingston Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 45 mins	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$50-$90	$40-$60 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Corridor route from Union Station to Kingston Station.	Highway 401 East.
Tip	Book in advance to secure the lowest fares.	The 401 is busy; consider leaving early in the morning.

Travel Tips

VIA Rail
The train is comfortable and offers free Wi-Fi, making it great for productivity.
Driving
Highway 401 is generally busy; use Waze for real-time traffic updates.
Parking
Downtown Kingston has several parking garages, but they can be expensive.
Navigation
Use Google Maps for real-time traffic updates on the 401.
Planning
Check the weather forecast, as Kingston can have significant snowfall in winter.

Safety Tips

Driving
Take regular breaks on the long drive to stay alert.
Public Transit
Kingston Transit provides local bus service throughout the city.
Emergency
Keep a winter emergency kit in your car if traveling in the colder months.
Pedestrian
Be aware of cyclists, as Kingston is a bike-friendly city.