Getting In
Canada’s fourth largest city, Ottawa is often described as one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. Less than an hour’s drive from the U.S. border, Ottawa offers all of the cultural attractions of a major urban centre, yet maintains the accessibility, security, atmosphere, and charm of a small town.
How you get here is up to you. Just come – and enjoy!
Fly
The Ottawa International Airport is conveniently located a short distance south of the Ottawa city centre. Most major Canadian and American commercial airlines and charters connect Ottawa to the world, making it easy to arrive from almost every departure point.
Take the Train
VIA Rail operates Canada’s vast coast-to-coast passenger rail service. A scenic train ride will bring you in comfort to Ottawa, leaving you at the main train station located minutes from downtown.
Drive
Ottawa is easily accessible by all major Canadian highways and autoroutes. The Trans-Canada Highway (17) spans the country from coast to coast, and passes through the heart of the city as a multi-lane roadway.
From Toronto
Take Highway 401 east to Highway 416 and follow the signs into Ottawa.
From Montreal
Take Highway 40 west to the Ontario border, where it becomes Highway 417. The 417 takes you directly to Ottawa.
From the USA
Ottawa is a one-hour drive from the closest border crossing at Ogdensburg NY/Prescott ON. From any U.S. point of entry between Ogdensburg NY and Detroit MI, the fastest route to Ottawa is by Highway 401 east to Highway 416, then north to Ottawa. If you are crossing into Ontario at Cornwall (from Massena or St. Regis NY), drive through Cornwall to Highway 138 north (direction Bonville/Monkland). Continue north until you reach Highway 417 and drive west to Ottawa.
Bus
Greyhound Bus Lines connects Ottawa to many Canadian and U.S. cities. Ottawa Central Station centrally located in downtown Ottawa.
