Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Montreal is just two hours from Ottawa, making Canada’s most European city the perfect day trip for culture, food, and adventure.
Ottawa to Montreal day trip 2025 is one of the most popular escapes for capital residents. Whether you drive the scenic Highway 417/40 corridor, take the comfortable VIA Rail train, or catch an affordable bus, you can be walking the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal by mid-morning. This guide covers every transportation option, a suggested day trip itinerary, and insider tips to maximize your Montreal experience in just one day.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Montreal is 2 hours from Ottawa by car, 2 hours by train, or 2.5 hours by bus. A day trip is totally doable - leave early, explore Old Montreal, enjoy the food scene, and return by evening. Train offers the best experience; driving gives most flexibility.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Distance | 200 km (125 miles) |
| 🚗 Driving Time | 2-2.5 hours |
| 🚂 Train Time | 2 hours |
| 🚌 Bus Time | 2.5 hours |
| 💰 Train Cost | $35-$65 one-way |
| ⛽ Gas Cost | ~$40-50 round trip |
Getting to Montreal
Multiple transportation options connect Ottawa and Montreal
Choose the option that fits your budget, schedule, and travel style.
Transportation Comparison
| Option | Time | Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 2-2.5 hrs | $50-70 (gas + parking) | Flexibility, stops | Parking hassle |
| VIA Rail | 2 hrs | $70-130 | Comfortable, scenic, downtown | Schedule constraints |
| Bus | 2.5 hrs | $40-80 | Affordable | Less comfortable |
Best Choice By Traveller Type
- Solo travellers: Train (no parking stress)
- Couples: Train or car (romance factor)
- Families: Car (kid flexibility)
- Budget travellers: Bus
- Foodies: Train (drink freely, no driving)
Driving Route & Tips
The drive from Ottawa to Montreal takes about 2 hours
The most popular option offers complete flexibility.
The Route
Highway 417 → Highway 40:
- From Ottawa, take Highway 417 East
- Cross into Quebec (becomes Autoroute 40)
- Continue to Montreal
- Exit for downtown or Old Montreal
Distance: 200 km Time: 2-2.5 hours depending on traffic
Driving Tips
Best departure times:
- Leave Ottawa by 7:00 AM (avoid traffic)
- Avoid Friday 3-6 PM (weekend rush)
- Sunday return before 4 PM or after 8 PM
Border considerations:
- Ontario → Quebec (same country, no stop)
- Road signs change to French only
- Speed limits posted in km/h
- Different traffic laws (right on red varies)
Rest stops:
- Multiple service centres along Autoroute 40
- Gas typically cheaper in Ontario
- Casselman and Rigaud are good break points
Parking in Montreal
Old Montreal parking:
- Street parking: Limited, metered
- Parking garages: $15-$30/day
- Notre-Dame Basilica garage
- Vieux-Port parking lots
Downtown parking:
- More expensive than Old Montreal
- Eaton Centre parking
- Underground parking throughout
Tips:
- Arrive early for street parking
- Check Parkopedia or SpotHero apps
- Garages are stress-free but costly
VIA Rail Train Experience
VIA Rail offers comfortable, scenic service between Ottawa and Montreal
The train is the most enjoyable way to travel.
VIA Rail Details
Route: Ottawa Station → Montreal Gare Centrale
Travel time: Approximately 2 hours
Frequency: 5-7 trains daily (each direction)
Schedule (typical):
- First train: ~6:30 AM
- Last return: ~7:30 PM
- Check viarail.ca for current schedule
Ticket Prices
| Class | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| Economy | $35-$65 one way |
| Business | $80-$120 one way |
| Escape Fare (advance) | $25-$45 one way |
Saving money:
- Book early for Escape Fares
- Tuesday/Wednesday cheapest
- Check for sales and promotions
- Consider rail passes for frequent travellers
Train Experience
Economy class:
- Comfortable seats
- Power outlets
- Free WiFi
- Café car for snacks/drinks
Business class:
- Larger seats
- Complimentary meals
- Priority boarding
- Lounge access
Station Information
Ottawa Station:
- 200 Tremblay Road
- Near VIA Rail parking
- Taxi/rideshare available
- OC Transpo Route 97
Montreal Gare Centrale:
- 895 de la Gauchetière West
- Connected to underground city (RÉSO)
- Metro access (Bonaventure station)
- Walking distance to Old Montreal (20 min)
Bus Options
Buses offer the most affordable transportation option
Budget travellers can save with bus service.
Bus Operators
Orleans Express
- Main carrier between cities
- Comfortable coaches
- WiFi and power outlets
- Ottawa bus station → Montreal bus station
Flixbus
- Growing service
- Often cheapest option
- Book online
- Various pickup points
Bus Details
Travel time: 2.5-3 hours
Typical prices: $20-$40 one way
Frequency: Multiple departures daily
Bus Tips
- Book online for best prices
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Bring entertainment (no café car)
- Montreal station has metro access
Suggested Day Trip Itinerary
Maximize your Montreal day with this suggested schedule
Make the most of your day with this optimized itinerary.
Early Start (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
Departure from Ottawa:
- 7:00 AM: Leave by car or catch early train
- 9:00 AM: Arrive in Montreal
If driving:
- Park near Old Montreal
- Garage near Notre-Dame Basilica recommended
If train:
- Walk from Gare Centrale (20 min)
- Or take Metro to Place-d’Armes
Morning: Old Montreal (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Must-see stops:
Notre-Dame Basilica
- Stunning Gothic Revival interior
- Entry fee: ~$15
- Worth the visit, even for non-religious
- Opens at 9:00 AM
Place Jacques-Cartier
- Heart of Old Montreal
- Street performers and artists
- Cafés for first coffee
Old Port (Vieux-Port)
- Waterfront promenade
- Views of St. Lawrence River
- In summer: boats, in winter: skating
Cobblestone streets
- Rue Saint-Paul (shops, galleries)
- Rue de la Commune (waterfront)
- Architecture photo opportunities
Lunch: Montreal Food Experience (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM)
Option 1: Classic Montreal
- Schwartz’s Deli: Famous smoked meat sandwich
- Expect a line, worth the wait
- 3895 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Option 2: Old Montreal Dining
- Olive et Gourmando: Brunch/lunch favourite
- Crew Collective Café: Stunning bank building
- Multiple terrasses in summer
Option 3: Quick Bites
- Grab a Montreal bagel (Fairmount or St-Viateur)
- Poutine at La Banquise (if time permits)
Afternoon: Explore More (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM)
Choose your adventure:
Option A: Mount Royal
- Take a cab or walk to mountain
- Climb to Kondiaronk Belvedere
- Panoramic city views
- 30-45 min walk up, or drive
Option B: Museums
- Pointe-à-Callière (archaeology museum)
- Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- McCord Museum (Canadian history)
Option C: Shopping
- Rue Sainte-Catherine (main shopping)
- Underground city (RÉSO)
- Mile End boutiques (trendy neighbourhood)
Option D: Neighbourhoods
- Plateau Mont-Royal (hip, artistic)
- Mile End (indie shops, street art)
- Jean-Talon Market (food market)
Late Afternoon: Coffee & Dessert (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Sweet stops:
- Olive et Gourmando: Pastries
- Crew Café: Coffee in beautiful bank
- Juliette et Chocolat: Hot chocolate, desserts
Evening Return (6:00 PM - 8:30 PM)
If driving:
- Leave by 6:00 PM to avoid traffic
- Arrive Ottawa ~8:00-8:30 PM
If train:
- Last trains typically 6:30-7:30 PM
- Check schedule when booking
- Arrive Ottawa 8:30-9:30 PM
Old Montreal Must-Sees
Old Montreal’s historic streets and architecture are a highlight
Don’t miss these Old Montreal highlights.
Top Attractions
Notre-Dame Basilica
- Must-see architectural wonder
- AURA light show (evening, ticketed)
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (varies)
- Cost: ~$15 adult
Old Port (Vieux-Port)
- Waterfront recreation area
- Science Centre
- Clock Tower (climb for views)
- La Grande Roue (Ferris wheel)
Place Jacques-Cartier
- Lively pedestrian square
- Restaurants and cafés
- Street performers
- Nelson’s Column monument
Bonsecours Market
- Historic market building
- Quebec artisan shops
- Architecture worth seeing
Rue Saint-Paul
- Oldest street in Montreal
- Art galleries
- Boutique shops
- Historic buildings
Walking Tour Route
- Start at Place d’Armes (Metro)
- Notre-Dame Basilica
- Walk to Place Jacques-Cartier
- Continue to Old Port waterfront
- Stroll Rue de la Commune
- Return via Rue Saint-Paul
- End at Bonsecours Market
Distance: ~3 km loop Time: 2-3 hours with stops
Montreal Food Scene
Montreal’s food scene is a major draw for day trippers
Food is a primary reason to visit Montreal.
Montreal Classics
Smoked meat sandwich:
- Schwartz’s Deli: The original, expect lines
- Main Deli: Good alternative, less wait
- Lester’s: Another solid option
Montreal bagels:
- St-Viateur Bagel: Open 24 hours
- Fairmount Bagel: Also 24 hours
- Smaller, sweeter, denser than other bagels
Poutine:
- La Banquise: 30+ varieties, open late
- Patati Patata: Tiny, legendary
- Many spots throughout city
Day Trip Food Strategy
For a full day:
- Breakfast: Skip (eat en route or light)
- Mid-morning: Montreal bagel with cream cheese
- Lunch: Schwartz’s smoked meat
- Afternoon: Coffee and pastry
- Pre-departure: Poutine (if hungry)
Bring home:
- Montreal bagels (buy a dozen)
- Smoked meat from deli
- Quebec cheeses from Jean-Talon Market
Shopping Destinations
Montreal offers diverse shopping from luxury to vintage
Montreal offers shopping experiences different from Ottawa.
Shopping Areas
Rue Sainte-Catherine
- Main shopping street
- Major retailers
- Simons, La Baie, etc.
- Connected to underground city
Underground City (RÉSO)
- 32 km of tunnels
- Connected to Metro
- Malls, shops, food courts
- Great in winter
Mile End
- Independent boutiques
- Vintage shops
- Local designers
- Trendy, artsy vibe
Old Montreal
- Art galleries
- Quebec artisan goods
- Tourist shops (prices higher)
- Unique gifts
What to Buy
Only in Montreal:
- Quebec artisan goods
- Montreal-branded items
- French-language books
- Local designer fashion
- Quebec wines and ciders
Seasonal Activities
Montreal offers distinct experiences in every season
Your Montreal experience varies by season.
Winter (December - March)
Highlights:
- Ice skating at Old Port
- Underground city exploration
- Christmas markets (December)
- Igloofest electronic music festival
Consider:
- Cold weather (dress warm)
- Shorter daylight hours
- Some outdoor attractions closed
Spring (April - May)
Highlights:
- Terrasses opening
- Cherry blossoms in parks
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Moderate weather
Summer (June - August)
Highlights:
- Festival season (Jazz Fest, Just for Laughs)
- Outdoor terrasses everywhere
- Old Port activities
- Best weather
Consider:
- Peak tourist season
- Higher prices
- Book trains/restaurants ahead
Fall (September - November)
Highlights:
- Beautiful foliage
- Harvest markets
- Fewer tourists
- Comfortable weather
Budget Tips
Enjoy Montreal without breaking the bank
Montreal can be affordable with smart planning.
Money-Saving Strategies
Transportation:
- Bus is cheapest option
- Book train Escape Fares early
- If driving, fill up in Ontario
- Walk in Old Montreal (it’s compact)
Food:
- Bagels and coffee: ~$8
- Schwartz’s sandwich: ~$15
- Poutine: ~$12
- Skip sit-down restaurants
Activities:
- Walking Old Montreal: Free
- Old Port waterfront: Free
- People watching: Free
- Notre-Dame Basilica: ~$15
Sample Budget Day Trip
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transportation (bus round trip) | $50 |
| Breakfast bagel | $6 |
| Lunch (Schwartz’s) | $18 |
| Coffee/pastry | $10 |
| Notre-Dame entry | $15 |
| Poutine dinner | $14 |
| Total | ~$115 |
Splurge-Worthy
If you want to treat yourself:
- Business class train (~$180 RT)
- Nice Old Montreal lunch (~$50)
- AURA light show (~$30)
- Cocktails with a view
What to Pack
Pack light but smart for your day trip
Travel light but prepared.
Day Trip Essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones!)
- Phone charger / power bank
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Small backpack or crossbody bag
- Cash (some places cash-only)
- Credit card
- Camera
- Snacks for travel
Seasonal Additions
Winter:
- Warm coat and layers
- Hat, gloves, scarf
- Insulated boots
- Hand warmers
Summer:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Light layers (AC can be cold)
- Water bottle
- Hat for sun
Leave Behind
- Heavy luggage
- Multiple outfit changes
- Laptop (unless working on train)
- Anything you’d hate to lose
FAQ
Q: How far is Montreal from Ottawa?
Montreal is approximately 200 km (125 miles) from Ottawa. By car, it’s about 2-2.5 hours depending on traffic. By train, it’s almost exactly 2 hours. By bus, expect 2.5-3 hours.
Q: What is the best way to get from Ottawa to Montreal?
VIA Rail offers the most enjoyable experience with comfortable seating, WiFi, and arrival in downtown Montreal. Driving offers more flexibility but requires dealing with parking. Bus is the most affordable option.
Q: How much is the train from Ottawa to Montreal?
VIA Rail tickets range from $35-$65 one way for economy class, with Escape Fares sometimes as low as $25 if booked early. Business class runs $80-$120 one way. Round trip costs $70-$130 for economy.
Q: Is a day trip to Montreal from Ottawa worth it?
Yes, Montreal is very doable as a day trip. Leave early (7:00 AM), spend a full day exploring, and return by evening. You can see Old Montreal highlights, enjoy great food, and experience the city’s culture in one day.
Q: What should I do in Montreal for a day?
Focus on Old Montreal: visit Notre-Dame Basilica, walk Place Jacques-Cartier and the Old Port, eat smoked meat at Schwartz’s and grab Montreal bagels. If time permits, explore the Plateau or climb Mount Royal for views.
Q: Where should I park in Montreal for a day trip?
Park in Old Montreal near Notre-Dame Basilica or the Old Port. Expect to pay $15-$30 for a full day. Arrive early for better street parking options. Consider the train to avoid parking hassles entirely.
Q: Is Montreal expensive to visit?
Montreal can be as affordable or expensive as you make it. Budget travellers can enjoy bagels, walk the city, and take the bus for under $100/day. Splurging on trains, restaurants, and activities can easily exceed $200.
Q: What food is Montreal known for?
Montreal is famous for smoked meat sandwiches (Schwartz’s), Montreal-style bagels (St-Viateur, Fairmount), poutine (La Banquise), and French-influenced cuisine. Don’t leave without trying at least the bagels and smoked meat.
Q: Do I need to speak French in Montreal?
No, Montreal is very bilingual. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and Old Montreal. That said, basic French phrases are appreciated and some locals prefer French.
Q: How often do trains run from Ottawa to Montreal?
VIA Rail operates approximately 5-7 trains daily in each direction. The first train departs around 6:30 AM and the last return train around 7:30 PM. Check viarail.ca for the current schedule.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Montreal?
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and festival season but is busiest. Spring and fall have fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Winter is cold but festive, especially during holidays.
Q: Can I use US dollars in Montreal?
Canadian dollars are the only currency. Most places accept credit cards, but some spots are cash-only. ATMs are widely available. Avoid currency exchange kiosks with poor rates.
Final Summary
Montreal makes an ideal day trip from Ottawa, offering world-class food, stunning architecture, and a distinctly European atmosphere just two hours away. Whether you opt for the comfortable VIA Rail train, drive for flexibility, or take the budget-friendly bus, you can experience Montreal’s highlights in a single day.
Key takeaways:
- Leave early (7:00 AM) to maximize your day
- Train is best for comfort and convenience
- Focus on Old Montreal for a day trip
- Eat the classics - smoked meat, bagels, poutine
- Pack light and wear comfortable shoes
With a bit of planning, your Ottawa to Montreal day trip will leave you with great memories and probably a bag of bagels for the ride home.
Sources: VIA Rail, Tourisme Montréal, Orleans Express, Old Montreal
