Kingston
Kingston
Train Driving

Western Shore to Kingston

Updated: 31 May 2026

To travel from Western Shore to Kingston, you can drive approximately 1,600 km via the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 401. Alternatively, take the train from Halifax to Montreal and transfer to a Kingston-bound train. Kingston is located on the shores of Lake Ontario. The total driving time is about 17 hours.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,600 km, straight-line air distance 1,200 km.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Trans-Canada Highway.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective.
Compare Western Shore to Kingston Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 22 hours 17 hours
Avg Price $300 - $600 CAD $300 - $500 CAD
Operator VIA Rail Personal Vehicle
Route Halifax to Montreal to Kingston Hwy 103 to Hwy 102 to Hwy 104 to Hwy 20 to Hwy 401
Tip The train is a comfortable way to travel the long distance. The drive through Ontario is long; plan for an overnight stop.
Travel Tips
  • Driving
    Highway 401 is very busy; be prepared for heavy traffic.
  • Weather
    Winters are cold; pack appropriate gear.
  • Dining
    Enjoy the many restaurants in the downtown core.
  • Events
    Check for festivals in the summer months.
  • Parking
    Use public parking garages in the downtown area.
Safety Tips
  • Driving
    Stay alert on long stretches of highway.
  • Winter Driving
    Ensure your vehicle has winter tires.
  • Emergency
    Dial 911 for emergency services.
  • Pedestrian Safety
    Use crosswalks in the busy downtown areas.
People Also Ask
  • Is Kingston a big city?
    It is a mid-sized city with a rich history.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 17 hours from Western Shore.
  • What is the best way to travel?
    Driving is the most practical method.
  • Are there trains to Kingston?
    Yes, VIA Rail serves the Kingston station.
  • Is it safe to live in Kingston?
    Yes, it is considered a safe and family-friendly city.
Quick Info
  • From Western Shore, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • To Kingston, Ontario, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to September for lake activities.

Things to Do in Kingston
1
Fort Henry
Visit the historic military site. It offers tours and demonstrations.
2
Thousand Islands
Take a boat tour of the beautiful islands in the St. Lawrence River.
3
Kingston Penitentiary
Take a guided tour of the former maximum-security prison.
4
Downtown Kingston
Explore the historic limestone buildings and waterfront shops.
Tags
Western Shore to Kingston driving to Kingston VIA Rail to Kingston travel to Kingston ON Nova Scotia to Ontario Canada travel Trans-Canada Highway Kingston travel guide