City to city
Montreal to Ottawa by Train
You can travel direct between these cities on the VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa train, a daytime service that takes about 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa | about 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes | Several trains a day | No | No, direct |
Traveling between Quebec's largest city and Canada's capital is straightforward by rail. The route connects the two downtown areas without the need to navigate highway traffic or airport security. VIA Rail operates the service, providing a comfortable ride across the provincial border. This corridor is popular with both business travelers and tourists. You can easily book tickets online in advance to secure the best fares. The journey is short enough to make a day trip possible, though many passengers stay longer to explore the national museums and government buildings in Ottawa.
Your train options
The only direct service on this route is the VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa train. As of 2026, several trains a day run between the two cities. The approximate journey time is about 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes. This is a daytime service, so there is no overnight travel on this trip. Passengers can choose between Economy and Business class. Economy provides standard seating and access to purchase food and drinks. Business class offers more space, complimentary meals, and lounge access at the stations. When deciding how to choose, consider your budget and whether you want the extra workspace and meals provided in Business class. Both classes offer a comfortable ride for this short journey. For advice on getting the best price, review our Amtrak and VIA booking tips.
The journey
The train departs Montreal and heads west toward the Ontario border. If you travel during daylight hours, you will see the Ottawa Valley's flat farmland out the window as you approach Canada's capital. Nighttime departures offer limited views, but the ride remains smooth and quiet. The train makes a few stops in between the two major cities. Shortly after leaving the downtown core, the train calls at Dorval. This stop is convenient for passengers connecting from the nearby airport or living in the western suburbs. Further along the route, the train stops at Alexandria, a small community in eastern Ontario. The scenery consists mostly of agricultural fields scattered across the plain. The landscape is pleasant, and the short duration of the trip means you will arrive at your destination quickly.
The stations
The journey begins at Montreal station, also known as Gare Centrale. The station is located downtown under the Queen Elizabeth hotel. It connects directly to the Metro at Bonaventure and the REM light rail. Gare Centrale is served by VIA Corridor trains, the Ocean, regional trains to Jonquière and Senneterre, and Amtrak's Adirondack. You will arrive at Ottawa station, which is situated in the east of the city, about 4 km from Parliament Hill. Passengers can connect with the O-Train Line 1 at Tremblay. Ottawa is served by VIA trains to Toronto and Montreal.
Tips
- Book your tickets early to secure the lowest Economy fares.
- Check the VIA Rail schedule to find a departure time that suits your plans.
- Use the O-Train Line 1 at Tremblay to reach downtown Ottawa quickly.
- Business class passengers can use the station lounges before departure.
Questions travellers ask
Is there a direct train from Montreal to Ottawa?
Yes, every train listed is direct. The VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa train runs several times a day between the two cities, so you will not need to change trains along the way.
How long is the train ride from Montreal to Ottawa?
The approximate journey time is about 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes. The exact duration depends on the specific departure and rail traffic on the day of travel.