Is there a train to Ottawa?

VIA Rail operates from Montreal to Ottawa, but there is no direct rail from Nova Scotia.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 15 hours without stops.

Yes, some sections of the highway in Nova Scotia and Quebec have tolls.

What is the best airport?

Halifax Stanfield (YHZ) is the closest major airport to Summerville.

Is it safe to drive alone?

Yes, the Trans-Canada Highway is well-maintained and patrolled.

Ottawa

Flight Driving

Summerville to Ottawa

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

The journey from Summerville to Ottawa covers approximately 1,350 km. You must first drive 80 km to Halifax Stanfield International Airport. From there, direct flights to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport take about 2 hours. Alternatively, driving the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 104 and Hwy 20) takes roughly 15 hours of pure driving time. This route crosses the scenic landscapes of New Brunswick and Quebec before entering Ontario.

Total Distance: 1,350 km driving distance; 1,050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Halifax (YHZ) to Ottawa (YOW) is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper for groups of two or more people.

Compare Summerville to Ottawa Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	15 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $500 CAD	$200 - $300 CAD in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YHZ to YOW	Hwy 104, Hwy 2, Hwy 401
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Expect heavy traffic near Montreal; plan to bypass during off-peak hours.

Travel Tips

Airport Shuttle
Use the Metrobus or airport taxi services from Halifax to reach YHZ.
Highway Tolls
Be aware of tolls on the Cobequid Pass in Nova Scotia.
Time Zones
Ottawa is in the Eastern Time Zone, one hour behind Nova Scotia.
Packing
Bring layers, as Ottawa weather fluctuates significantly throughout the day.
Navigation
Download offline maps for the stretch through northern New Brunswick.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid driving the Trans-Canada Highway in Quebec during heavy snowstorms.
Wildlife
Watch for moose on highways in New Brunswick, especially at dawn and dusk.
Emergency Kit
Carry a roadside emergency kit including jumper cables and a flashlight.
Cell Coverage
Expect intermittent cell service in remote parts of northern New Brunswick.