Is Barrie near Toronto?

Yes, Barrie is located about 90 km north of Toronto.

How long is the bus trip?

The bus trip typically takes 24 hours including transfer times.

Are there trains to Barrie?

Yes, GO Transit provides commuter rail service from Toronto to Barrie.

What is the best highway?

Highway 400 is the primary route into Barrie from the south.

Yes, the route is well-maintained and heavily traveled.

St. Andrews

Barrie

Bus Driving

St. Andrews to Barrie

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from St. Andrews to Barrie covers roughly 1,600 km, primarily following the Trans-Canada Highway. You will drive through the scenic landscapes of New Brunswick, the urban corridors of Quebec, and the heart of Ontario. Most travelers prefer driving to maintain flexibility, though bus services are available with transfers in major cities like Montreal or Toronto. Barrie serves as a gateway to cottage country, making this a popular route for those heading north of the Greater Toronto Area.

Total Distance: 1,600 km driving distance; 1,200 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 17 hours without major traffic delays.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is generally the cheapest, though it requires significant time for transfers.

Compare St. Andrews to Barrie Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	24 hours	17 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $400 CAD	$300 - $450 CAD
Operator	Maritime Bus / Greyhound Canada (via partners)	Personal Vehicle
Route	St. Andrews to Moncton, then bus to Montreal, and finally to Barrie.	NB-1 to Trans-Canada Hwy (Hwy 2) to Hwy 401, then Hwy 400 North.
Tip	Book tickets at least two weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Take the Hwy 407 ETR toll route around Toronto to bypass heavy traffic.

Travel Tips

Toll Roads
The 407 ETR in Ontario is a private toll road; ensure your transponder is active.
Traffic
Avoid the 401 through Toronto between 7 AM and 9 AM.
Accommodation
Book hotels in Kingston, Ontario, for a convenient halfway stop.
Weather
Barrie experiences significant lake-effect snow; check forecasts in winter.
Parking
Downtown Barrie offers paid municipal parking lots near the waterfront.

Safety Tips

Speed Limits
Strictly follow speed limits on Highway 400, as police presence is high.
Distracted Driving
Ontario has strict laws against using handheld devices while driving.
Visibility
Use headlights during the day on rural highways for better visibility.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for any emergency; cellular service is reliable along the 401 corridor.