Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Ottawa’s O-Train LRT system operates two electric light rail lines: the Confederation Line (Line 1) running 12.5 km east-west through downtown with 13 stations, and the Trillium Line (Line 2) running north-south with 25 stations. Fares start at $3.75 with a PRESTO card, trains run every 3-8 minutes during peak hours, and the system connects to over 100 OC Transpo bus routes for seamless city-wide travel.
The O-Train LRT network is one of the biggest transit investments in Ottawa’s history, connecting downtown with suburban communities through modern, accessible rapid transit. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring attractions, or simply trying to avoid downtown parking headaches, knowing how the system works makes getting around much easier. This guide covers the essentials for riding the Confederation and Trillium lines in 2025—from fares and PRESTO to transfers, accessibility, and local tips.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s O-Train operates two lines—the east-west Confederation Line (Line 1) with 13 stations, and the north-south Trillium Line (Line 2) with 25 stations. Use a PRESTO card for seamless transfers, trains run every 5-15 minutes, and the system connects to over 100 bus routes across the city.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Coverage | 38 stations across 2 lines |
| 🚗 Service Hours | 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM daily |
| 💰 Fare | $3.75 adult, $2.00 senior/youth with PRESTO |
| ⏰ Frequency | Every 5-8 min peak, 10-15 min off-peak |
Understanding Ottawa’s O-Train Network
The O-Train system consists of two distinct light rail lines that form the backbone of OC Transpo’s rapid transit network. The Confederation Line (Line 1) runs east-west through the city’s core, while the Trillium Line (Line 2) provides north-south service connecting southern suburbs to downtown.
Line 1 opened in 2019 and revolutionized downtown transit by moving buses out of the congested city centre and into an underground tunnel. The 12.5-kilometre route connects Tunney’s Pasture in the west to Blair in the east, with key downtown stations at Lyon, Parliament, and Rideau serving as major transfer hubs.
Line 2, originally launched in 2001 as a pilot project, underwent massive expansion and reopened in 2023 with modern trains and extended service. The line now runs from Bayview Station (connecting with Line 1) south to Limebank, serving communities like Carleton University, South Keys, and Riverside South.
The two lines intersect at Bayview Station in the west and will eventually form a more integrated network when the eastern and western Line 1 extensions open in the coming years. These expansions will add 24 new stations, extending service to Barrhaven, Kanata, and Orleans.
How to Pay: PRESTO Cards and Fare Options
Paying for O-Train service is straightforward, but understanding your options can save you money and hassle. The PRESTO card system is the most convenient payment method, offering seamless transfers and discounted fares compared to cash.
PRESTO Card Benefits:
A PRESTO card costs $6 upfront and can be loaded with funds at stations, participating retailers, or online. Adult fares are $3.75 per trip, while seniors (65+) and youth (6-19) pay just $2.00. Children under 6 ride free. The real advantage comes with transfers—tap your PRESTO card when boarding and you get 90 minutes of unlimited travel across all OC Transpo services, including buses and both O-Train lines.
For regular commuters, PRESTO monthly passes offer unlimited travel for $122.50 (adult) or $99.25 (senior/youth). If you ride more than 32 times per month, a pass pays for itself. The EquiPass program provides reduced-rate passes starting at $61.25 for eligible low-income residents.
Cash and Tickets:
Cash is accepted on buses but NOT on O-Train platforms. You must purchase a paper ticket from station vending machines before boarding. Single-trip tickets cost the same as PRESTO fares ($3.75/$2.00), but you miss out on the transfer flexibility. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes from purchase time.
Mobile Payment:
While OC Transpo doesn’t yet offer a native mobile app for payments (as of 2025), you can manage your PRESTO card through the PRESTO mobile app. Load funds, check your balance, set auto-reload, and view transaction history from your phone.
Pro tip: Always keep at least $10 on your PRESTO card to avoid declined taps during rush hour when you can’t easily reload.
Riding the Confederation Line (Line 1)
The Confederation Line is Ottawa’s primary rapid transit corridor, moving over 200,000 passengers daily through the heart of the city. Understanding this line’s layout and key stations will make your travel efficient and stress-free.
Station Overview:
From west to east, the 13 stations are: Tunney’s Pasture, Bayview, Pimisi, Lyon, Parliament, Rideau, uOttawa, Lees, Hurdman, Tremblay, St-Laurent, Cyrville, and Blair. The five downtown stations (Pimisi to uOttawa) are underground, while the remaining stations are at-grade or elevated.
Key Stations and Destinations:
Tunney’s Pasture serves government office complexes and connects to Transitway bus routes heading west. Bayview is the critical transfer point to Line 2 and western bus routes. Lyon puts you steps from the Canadian War Museum and Sparks Street. Parliament delivers you directly to Parliament Hill, the National Gallery, and Rideau Canal.
Rideau is the system’s busiest station, accessing the Rideau Centre shopping mall, ByWard Market, and countless downtown attractions. The station features direct underground connections to the mall—perfect for winter weather. uOttawa serves the University of Ottawa campus and Sandy Hill neighbourhood.
Hurdman and Blair are major bus transfer stations, connecting Line 1 to dozens of routes serving eastern communities. Tremblay provides access to VIA Rail’s Ottawa train station and the airport bus route.
Travel Times:
End-to-end travel on Line 1 takes approximately 24 minutes. From Blair to downtown Rideau is about 15 minutes, while Tunney’s Pasture to Rideau is roughly 10 minutes. During peak hours (7-9 AM, 3:30-6 PM), trains arrive every 3-5 minutes. Off-peak service runs every 8-10 minutes, with reduced frequency after 10 PM.
Platform Navigation:
All Confederation Line platforms are centre-platform design, meaning trains heading both directions use the same platform. Digital displays show which side the next train is arriving on—westbound or eastbound. Pay attention to these screens and the audio announcements to avoid boarding the wrong direction.
Exploring the Trillium Line (Line 2)
The newly expanded Trillium Line represents a complete transformation from the original diesel-powered pilot project to a modern electric light rail system. This north-south corridor serves communities often underserved by traditional bus routes.
Route and Stations:
Line 2 now operates 25 stations from Bayview in the north to Limebank in the south. Major stations include Carleton (serving Carleton University’s 30,000+ students), South Keys (connecting to airport buses and shopping), Greenboro (a major bus transfer hub), and multiple new stations serving rapidly growing areas like Riverside South and Leitrim.
The airport extension branches off at South Keys, adding six dedicated stations to Ottawa International Airport via a spur line. This airport connection (expected to open fully by 2026) will eliminate the need for bus transfers when flying in or out of Ottawa.
Service Patterns:
Unlike Line 1’s simple end-to-end operation, Line 2 uses a branching pattern. Most trains run the full Bayview-to-Limebank route, but some terminate at South Keys. During peak hours, additional trains serve the Bayview-to-Carleton segment to handle student commuter demand.
Digital signs at each station clearly indicate the train’s destination. If you’re heading to Limebank or the airport branch, verify the destination before boarding. Frequency is generally every 12 minutes during peak periods and 15 minutes off-peak.
Transfer Connections:
Bayview Station is your connection point between Lines 1 and 2. The station is designed for easy cross-platform transfers—simply exit your Line 1 train and walk across to the Line 2 platform on the same level. No additional fare is required if you’ve tapped within the 90-minute transfer window.
Greenboro and South Keys stations serve as major bus hubs, with heated shelters and real-time arrival displays for connecting routes. These stations are designed as transit centres where you can transfer to routes heading deep into suburban neighbourhoods not served by rail.
Accessibility Features and Barrier-Free Travel
Ottawa’s O-Train system was designed with universal accessibility as a core principle. Every station and train incorporates features that make transit usable for passengers with mobility, visual, hearing, and cognitive disabilities.
Station Accessibility:
All 38 O-Train stations are fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and level boarding. Tactile warning strips line platform edges to alert visually impaired passengers. Elevators feature Braille buttons and audio announcements of floor levels.
Station signage uses high-contrast colours and large, clear fonts. Wayfinding includes pictograms and multilingual text in English and French. Digital information displays are positioned at wheelchair-accessible heights with adjustable text size.
Train Features:
Every train car includes designated wheelchair spaces with secure restraints and call buttons to alert operators if assistance is needed. Priority seating near doors is marked for seniors, pregnant passengers, and those with disabilities. Audio announcements call out each station and which doors will open, while LED displays show the route and next stop.
Visual and audio alerts signal door opening and closing. Gap warnings help passengers navigate the small space between platform and train. In winter, stations have heated shelters and waiting areas to ensure comfort for all passengers.
Para Transpo Integration:
For passengers unable to use conventional transit, Para Transpo provides specialized door-to-door service. PRESTO cards work across both systems, and Para Transpo vehicles can pick up or drop off at any O-Train station to extend travel options.
OC Transpo’s Travel Training program offers free one-on-one instruction for seniors and people with disabilities learning to navigate the O-Train system. Staff will meet you at a station and walk through the entire journey process.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Like any urban transit system, the O-Train experiences occasional disruptions. Knowing how to handle common issues will keep your journey smooth even when problems arise.
Service Delays and Interruptions:
The Confederation Line has faced reliability challenges since opening, with periodic shutdowns due to technical issues, weather, or maintenance. OC Transpo provides R1 replacement bus service during Line 1 disruptions, following the same route and stopping at each station.
Check OC Transpo’s website, Twitter (@OCTranspoLive), or the Transit app before travelling. Real-time service alerts update continuously. During major disruptions, expect longer wait times and crowded buses. Allow extra travel time during winter months when weather impacts operations.
PRESTO Card Problems:
If your PRESTO card declines, common causes include insufficient funds, expired card (cards last 5 years), or damaged card chip. Keep your card away from magnets and don’t bend it in your wallet. If declined, use station vending machines to check your balance or purchase a paper ticket as backup.
Lost or stolen PRESTO cards can be reported online or by calling 1-877-378-6123. Your balance is protected and will transfer to a replacement card within 24 hours.
Station Closures:
Elevator outages occasionally make stations temporarily inaccessible for wheelchair users. OC Transpo posts closure notices online and at affected stations. Alternative accessible stations are identified, and Para Transpo provides supplementary service when needed.
Emergency Situations:
Red emergency intercoms are located throughout stations and on train platforms. Press to immediately contact OC Transpo control centre. On trains, yellow emergency strips along windows alert operators to problems. Use emergency door releases only in true emergencies—improper use can delay service for thousands of passengers.
Best Stations for Key Ottawa Destinations
Strategic station selection can save you significant walking time and make your trips more efficient. Here’s where to exit for Ottawa’s most popular destinations.
Downtown and Government:
For Parliament Hill and the Centennial Flame, exit at Parliament Station—you’ll emerge directly across from the Hill. The Supreme Court of Canada and Library and Archives are also closest to Parliament Station. Lyon Station serves the Canadian War Museum, Sparks Street pedestrian mall, and City Hall.
Rideau Station is your gateway to the Rideau Centre mall, ByWard Market, National Arts Centre, Chateau Laurier, and Rideau Canal. The station has underground connections to the mall, letting you shop without going outside in winter.
Museums and Attractions:
The National Gallery of Canada is a 5-minute walk from Parliament Station. Canadian Museum of Nature is equidistant from Lyon or Pimisi stations (about 10 minutes walk). The Canadian Museum of History is in Gatineau but accessible via bus routes from Lyon or Parliament stations.
Universities and Colleges:
uOttawa Station obviously serves the University of Ottawa campus, with direct access to academic buildings. Carleton University has its own dedicated Carleton Station on Line 2, with covered walkways to campus buildings. Algonquin College is served by buses connecting at Tunney’s Pasture or Baseline Station (on Line 2).
Sports and Entertainment:
Canadian Tire Centre (Senators games, concerts) requires bus transfers from Tunney’s Pasture. TD Place (Redblacks, 67’s, concerts, festivals) is a 15-minute walk from Pimisi Station or served by Line 2 at Carleton Station. Lansdowne Park shopping and restaurants are also near Carleton Station.
Shopping Districts:
Rideau Centre: Rideau Station (underground connection). Byward Market: Rideau Station (5-minute walk). Westboro Village: Tunney’s Pasture plus bus route 85 or 87. St. Laurent Shopping Centre: St-Laurent Station with short bus connection or 10-minute walk.
Airport Access:
Currently, take Line 1 to Hurdman or Blair, then transfer to Route 25 airport bus (runs every 30 minutes). When the airport extension opens on Line 2, you’ll ride directly from downtown to the terminal in approximately 40 minutes with no transfers.
Peak vs Off-Peak Travel Tips
Your O-Train experience varies dramatically depending on when you ride. Understanding peak patterns helps you plan smarter trips.
Peak Hours (Monday-Friday):
Morning rush: 7:00-9:00 AM Afternoon rush: 3:30-6:00 PM
During these windows, expect crowded trains, especially on Line 1 through downtown stations. Rideau, Parliament, and Lyon stations see the heaviest volumes. Position yourself near doors if you’re exiting at busy stations—you may need to assertively move through crowds.
Peak service offers the most frequent trains (every 3-5 minutes on Line 1), so even if a train looks packed, another is coming shortly. Consider waiting for the next train rather than squeezing into an overfilled car.
Best peak-hour strategies: Board at less busy stations if possible, travel slightly before or after peak windows, position yourself in the centre of the platform where trains are less crowded, and use the Transit app to check real-time crowding levels.
Off-Peak Advantages:
Midday (9:30 AM - 3:00 PM), evenings after 7:00 PM, and weekends offer much more relaxed travel. You’ll find seats easily, have time to check maps, and navigate stations without rushing. Off-peak is ideal for tourists exploring the city or anyone travelling with luggage, strollers, or mobility devices.
Service frequency decreases to 8-15 minutes between trains, so check schedules and plan accordingly. Late-night service (after 11 PM) can have 15-20 minute gaps—missing a train means significant waits.
Weekend and Holiday Schedules:
Weekends follow off-peak frequency from opening until close. Trains start slightly later (around 6:00 AM) on Sundays. Major holidays (Christmas Day, New Year’s Day) run on reduced Sunday schedules. Special events like Canada Day or sporting events trigger enhanced service with extra trains.
Seasonal Considerations:
Winter weather can impact schedules, especially on the at-grade portions of both lines. Snow, ice, and extreme cold have caused delays and service suspensions. Summer construction season often brings weekend closures or single-tracking with bus shuttle replacements.
Check service alerts before weekend trips, as planned maintenance frequently occurs on Saturdays and Sundays when commuter volumes are lower.
O-Train vs Bus: When to Choose Rail
Understanding when to take the O-Train versus buses optimizes your travel efficiency. The answer depends on your route, schedule, and priorities.
Advantages of O-Train:
Speed is the primary benefit—trains don’t sit in traffic, make limited stops, and reach higher speeds than buses. A trip from Blair to downtown takes 15 minutes by rail versus 30-45 minutes by bus in traffic. Frequency during peak hours (every 3-5 minutes) beats most bus routes.
Reliability is generally better, as trains follow fixed schedules unaffected by road congestion (weather impacts excepted). Comfort features include climate control, smoother rides, and more space than buses. Accessibility is superior with level boarding and consistent features across all stations.
When Buses Are Better:
Route coverage: Buses serve hundreds of neighbourhoods with no rail access. If your origin or destination isn’t near an O-Train station, direct bus service may beat train-plus-walk options.
Late-night service: Some bus routes run later than O-Train hours (which end around 1:00 AM). Overnight routes serve shift workers and late-night travellers when trains don’t operate.
Direct connections: Certain routes have direct bus service that’s faster than taking the train plus transfers. Use the Transit app to compare total travel time including walking and transfers.
Weather extremes: During severe winter storms that shut down trains, bus service often continues with delays. Buses can be rerouted around problems while trains are stuck on fixed rails.
Optimal Strategy:
Most efficient Ottawa transit use combines both. Take the O-Train for the main trunk of your journey (east-west or north-south) and transfer to buses for first-mile/last-mile connections to neighbourhoods. Your PRESTO card makes transfers seamless with that 90-minute transfer window.
Plan trips during non-peak hours when both trains and buses have seats available and you can navigate transfers comfortably. Use real-time arrival apps to time transfers and minimize waiting in cold weather.
Future Expansions: What’s Coming
Ottawa’s O-Train network is actively expanding with multiple major projects that will transform the system over the next 3-5 years.
Stage 2 Extensions (2025-2027):
The eastern extension of Line 1 will add 5 new stations from Blair to Place d’Orleans, serving Queenswood, Jeanne d’Arc, Renaud, and Trim Road before terminating at Place d’Orleans Shopping Centre. This 12-kilometre extension opens up rapid transit to Orleans’ growing communities.
Western extension adds 11 stations from Tunney’s Pasture through Dominion, Lincoln Fields, and out to Moodie Drive in Kanata. This brings O-Train service to densely populated western suburbs and connects to major employers in the Kanata technology corridor.
Southern extension on Line 2 adds 8 stations from Limebank to Bowesville in Barrhaven. This serves one of Ottawa’s fastest-growing suburbs with direct rail access to Carleton University and downtown.
Airport Connection:
The Line 2 airport spur (opening 2026) will finally provide direct rail service to Ottawa International Airport. Six stations connect South Keys to the terminal, eliminating the need for bus transfers. Expected travel time from downtown Rideau to the airport is under 45 minutes.
Future Planning (2030+):
Long-term plans include potential Line 3 serving the southeastern areas and additional infill stations on existing lines. Population growth in outer suburbs continues to drive demand for expanded rapid transit.
OC Transpo is exploring battery-electric trains for future expansions to reduce dependency on overhead power lines and lower operating costs. Modern signaling systems will increase frequency on existing lines from 90 seconds between trains to potentially 60 seconds during peak periods.
FAQ
Q: Can I bring a bike on the O-Train?
Yes, bicycles are allowed on O-Train during off-peak hours only (not during weekday rush hours 6:30-9:00 AM and 3:30-6:00 PM). Use the designated bike area near train doors and secure your bike so it doesn’t block aisles or doors. Folding bikes in bags are allowed anytime.
Q: How do I know which direction the train is going?
Platform displays show “Eastbound” or “Westbound” for Line 1, “Northbound” or “Southbound” for Line 2, along with the final destination station. Audio announcements also call out the direction and destination. Line 1 platforms are centre-platform with trains on both sides—check screens carefully.
Q: What happens if I forget to tap my PRESTO card?
You must tap your PRESTO card on the fare reader when entering stations. Fare inspectors randomly check passengers on trains—if you’re caught without proof of payment, you face a $250 fine. If you genuinely forgot to tap, explain to the inspector, but they have discretion on issuing citations.
Q: Are O-Trains running during extreme cold or snowstorms?
Service continues during most winter weather, but extreme conditions (below -30°C or heavy snow/ice accumulation) can cause delays or temporary shutdowns. Line 1’s underground sections remain operational while above-ground portions may close. OC Transpo provides R1 bus replacement service during weather-related closures.
Q: Can I eat or drink on the O-Train?
Officially, food and beverages are discouraged on O-Train to keep trains clean, but it’s not strictly prohibited. Alcohol is forbidden. Use common sense—coffee in a sealed cup is fine, but spreading out a full meal is inconsiderate. Please dispose of trash in station receptacles, not on trains.
Q: How do I transfer between Line 1 and Line 2?
Bayview Station is the only transfer point between lines. Exit your Line 1 train, cross the platform, and board a Line 2 train (or vice versa). Stay within the paid fare area—don’t exit through turnstiles or you’ll need to tap and pay again. Your 90-minute PRESTO transfer covers the connection.
Q: What if I need help or get lost in the station?
Press the red emergency intercom button at any platform or station area to immediately speak with OC Transpo control centre staff. They can provide directions, assistance, or dispatch personnel if needed. Station attendants are present at major stations during peak hours and can answer questions.
Q: Are O-Train stations safe at night?
Stations have security cameras, emergency intercoms, and regular OC Transpo special constable patrols. Lighting is bright throughout platforms and concourses. Stay in visible areas, keep valuables secure, and be aware of surroundings. If you feel unsafe, use the emergency intercom or move to areas where other passengers are present.
Q: Can tourists use the O-Train without a PRESTO card?
Yes, purchase single-trip paper tickets from vending machines at any station using credit card, debit, or cash. Tickets cost the same as PRESTO fares but don’t offer the same transfer flexibility. For stays longer than 2-3 days, buying a PRESTO card saves money and hassle.
Q: How far in advance can I plan my O-Train trip?
OC Transpo publishes schedules months in advance, but check their website or app a few days before travel for service alerts about construction, special events, or planned maintenance. The Transit app provides real-time arrival predictions based on current train positions, which is more accurate than printed schedules.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s O-Train light rail system has fundamentally reshaped urban mobility in the nation’s capital, offering residents and visitors a fast, modern alternative to car-dependent travel. While the system has experienced growing pains since launch—technical issues, weather vulnerabilities, and service interruptions—it remains the most efficient way to traverse Ottawa’s sprawling geography.
Mastering the O-Train means understanding which stations serve your destinations, leveraging PRESTO card transfers to combine train and bus routes, and timing trips to avoid peak-hour crowds when possible. The ongoing Stage 2 expansions will extend rapid transit benefits to hundreds of thousands more Ottawans in Orleans, Kanata, and Barrhaven, while the airport connection will finally provide seamless rail access for travellers.
Whether you’re commuting daily, exploring Ottawa’s museums and attractions, or attending events, the O-Train offers a reliable backbone for your journey. Download the Transit app, load your PRESTO card, and embrace the convenience of navigating Canada’s capital by rail in 2025 and beyond.
Source: OC Transpo Official Website, City of Ottawa Transit Services, PRESTO Card Information
