Is there a direct train to Sherbrooke?

No, you must take a train to Montreal and transfer to a bus or rental car.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 9 hours and 45 minutes under normal conditions.

What is the best way to travel?

Driving offers the most flexibility, while the train is more comfortable for long distances.

No, the primary route via Highway 401 and 20 is toll-free.

Yes, Sherbrooke is considered a safe city for travelers and students.

Windsor

Sherbrooke

Train Driving

Windsor to Sherbrooke

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Windsor to Sherbrooke covers approximately 850 km. You will primarily travel via the VIA Rail corridor connecting Windsor to Montreal, followed by a bus connection to the Eastern Townships. The route traverses the busy Highway 401 through Ontario before entering Quebec. Expect a total travel time of roughly 12 to 14 hours depending on transfer efficiency. This route is a classic transit through the heart of the St. Lawrence River valley.

Total Distance: 850 km driving distance; 720 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking under 10 hours without heavy traffic.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel via Greyhound or regional carriers is often the most budget-friendly option.

Compare Windsor to Sherbrooke Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	11 hours 30 mins	9 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	$180 - $350	$120 - $160 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Windsor Station to Montreal Central Station, then bus to Sherbrooke.	Highway 401 East to Highway 20 East, then Highway 55 South.
Tip	Book your VIA Rail ticket at least 3 weeks in advance for the best fare.	Avoid driving through Toronto during rush hour between 7 AM and 9 AM.

Travel Tips

Language
Sherbrooke is primarily French-speaking; learning basic phrases will enhance your experience.
Train Booking
Use the VIA Rail mobile app to track your train status in real-time.
Tolls
There are no major tolls on the direct route, but watch for bridge fees near border crossings.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available on most VIA Rail trains, but signal can be spotty in rural Quebec.
Packing
Bring layers, as the weather in the Eastern Townships can change rapidly compared to Windsor.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Highway 401 can be treacherous in winter; ensure your vehicle has winter tires.
Emergency Kit
Always carry a basic emergency kit including a blanket and water when driving long distances.
Pedestrian Safety
In Sherbrooke, use designated crosswalks as traffic can be fast-paced near the university.
Rail Safety
Never cross tracks except at designated pedestrian crossings at stations.