How to Get to Quebec from Ontario

Travelling to Quebec from Ontario is like stepping into a delightful world where 2 distinct yet beautifully connected cultures come alive. These neighbouring provinces offer a travel experience that’s as diverse as it is vibrant. Imagine starting your adventure amidst Ontario’s energetic cities like Toronto or Niagara Falls, with their iconic skylines and bustling streets, before winding down in the peaceful embrace of Montreal or Quebec City.

Quebec City’s cobblestone streets and Montreal’s unique neighbourhoods offer a taste of European class right in Canada, and all the other regions, I promise, will surprise you. However, the connection between these 2 provinces goes beyond just geographical proximity. They share a robust history, a love for outdoor adventures, and a warm hospitality that makes visitors feel right at home.

This article guides you on a memorable road trip from Ontario to Quebec, pointing you to hidden gems and cultural landmarks that will make your journey unforgettable. Get ready to explore the diverse spirit of this incredible region through multiple modes of transportation.

Preparing to Travel Between Ontario and Quebec

Having a plan in place will make your trip run smoother, cause less stress, and be more economical. Before you depart Ontario, use this checklist to ensure you have covered all the bases and are fully prepped to make the incredible journey to Quebec.

• Choose and schedule your mode of transportation
• Have accommodations booked
• Pack according to the season and weather forecast
• Book activities and restaurants
• Plan for pit stops along the way (optional)

Travelling to Quebec from Ontario by Car

Whether you have your own car, choose to rent one, or want to hire a car service, hitting the open road is the most rewarding mode of transportation to travel to Quebec from Ontario. It’s not the cheapest nor the most expensive, and it’s not the shortest nor the longest, but the benefits and freedom you get from overseeing your schedule far outweigh any financial or time-sensitive concerns.

Best Driving Routes Between Canadian Provinces

If you’re travelling from Southern Ontario, you must take Highway 401. You may have heard stories about this highway, as it’s the most travelled throughway in North America. With so many lanes, getting caught in a traffic jam is easy and can be a bit intimidating. To make driving smoother, plan your trip early in the morning, like 4:30 a.m. This will not eliminate traffic but will limit your exposure.

For those travelling from central or Northern Ontario, your route will be much more scenic and stress-free. From Thunder Bay, you can either stay north and take Highway 11 or take the Trans-Canada highway a bit south through Sudbury and enter Quebec through Rolphton or continue all the way to Ottawa/Gatineau.

You can also plan to pass through Témiscamingue in Abitibi-Témiscamingue! You can even make an itinerary out of it!

Benefits of Driving to Quebec From Ontario

Taking the northern route will allow you to see authentic Canadian wilderness both in Ontario and Quebec. However, if you travel from Toronto, you’ll have many options available for pit stops.

• Thousand Islands – Located just north of Kingston, this network of islands is a sight to behold. With various restaurants scattered along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, you can take a break from driving and enjoy the peaceful scenery after sitting in 401 traffic.

• The Big Apple – This classic roadside attraction is hard to miss as the building is literally a giant apple. Here, you can buy products from local apple orchards and grab a bite to eat at the diner.

• Saunders Hydro Dam – To add a bit of education to your road trip, stop at the Saunders Dam. This has a visitor centre that is happy to welcome guests and teach them about how they convert the tremendous power of the St. Lawrence River into enough electricity to power most of Northeast Ontario.

Travel Between Ontario and Quebec via Public Transportation

For those who just want to get to Quebec as quickly as possible with as little distractions as possible. You have 3 options:

Train to Quebec from Ontario

If you want to see the countryside but don’t want to be burdened with driving or facing traffic, then take the train. You can hop on from various stops and get off at many other stops once in Quebec. The train is excellent for group or solo travellers as the cars are spacious, have power outlets, and Wi-Fi.

Bus to Montreal or Quebec City

For a more economical option than the train, opt for the bus. It takes a bit longer and is not as comfortable, but the schedules are more flexible, and the cost can’t be beat. Just be sure to charge your devices ahead of time and maybe bring a book in case your battery runs out during a traffic jam.

Airplane: Flying From Ontario to Quebec

Travellers who are in a rush can travel from Toronto to Montreal via the skies in less than an hour. While this is the most expensive option by far, it’s also the most convenient, as the small Billy Bishop airport in downtown Toronto will take you right to Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport in the heart of Montreal or Jean Lesage International Airport in Quebec City.

Little tip: factor in the time to/from the airport, because it can be almost as long as driving or taking the train.

Best Way to Travel Here

The options for travelling to Quebec from Ontario are plentiful, so the best way to do it is whichever way suits your schedule and tolerance for adventure. Business travellers will prefer speed and convenience, while first-time visitors may want to dawdle. Either way, once you arrive in beautiful Quebec, use these guides I crafted to maximize your time!

• How to Visit Quebec on a Budget
• Best Outdoor Skating Rinks in Quebec
• Best Resorts in Quebec Province

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