Guide to the VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa Train

This route suits travelers looking for a reliable and comfortable way to travel between Canada's capital and the historic cities of Quebec. Driving or flying between these urban centers can be stressful, but the train takes you from city center to city center. It is ideal for tourists exploring eastern Canada and business travelers commuting between Montreal and Ottawa. Since the train runs several times a day, you can easily plan a schedule that fits your itinerary. You avoid the hassle of airport security and highway traffic while enjoying large windows and spacious seating.

Route overview

Operating as of 2026, the Montreal to Quebec City by train and Montreal to Ottawa by train segments combine to form a vital corridor service. The journey covers about 310 miles from end to end. The trip takes about 3 hours 15 minutes from Quebec City to Montreal, followed by about 2 hours from Montreal to Ottawa. This is a daytime service with no overnight trains.

Trains depart from Quebec City Gare du Palais, which is conveniently located near the walled Old Town. Along the way, the train calls at Sainte-Foy, Drummondville, Saint-Hyacinthe, Montreal Central Station, Dorval, and Alexandria before arriving in Ottawa. The Ottawa station is located a few miles east of downtown.

Because there are several trains a day, you can easily break the journey in Montreal. Montreal Central Station is a major hub where you can connect to the Adirondack, The Ocean, or trains to Toronto, Jonquière, and Senneterre. The entire trip is completed in a single day, making it an efficient way to travel between these major stops without sacrificing comfort.

What you see, section by section

Quebec City to Drummondville

Departing from the historic Gare du Palais, the train leaves Quebec City and crosses into the surrounding countryside. You will travel through the south shore farmland of the St. Lawrence plain. The landscape consists of flat agricultural fields and small rural communities. Since this is a daytime train, you will have clear views of the changing seasons across the Quebec farmland before the train approaches the urban outskirts of Montreal.

Montreal to Ottawa

After leaving Montreal Central Station and stopping at Dorval, the train heads west toward Ontario. The route passes through the Ottawa Valley's flat farmland on the way to Canada's capital. You can expect views of dense forests, open fields, and small towns like Alexandria. The scenery is predominantly rural and agricultural. The train completes this final two-hour leg entirely in daylight on most schedules, arriving at the Ottawa station a few miles east of the city center.

Classes and onboard

• Economy
• Business class

Passengers on this VIA Rail Corridor service can choose between Economy and Business class. Economy class offers comfortable, spacious seating with large windows and access to a café cart where you can purchase snacks and beverages. If you upgrade to Business class, you receive priority boarding, access to station lounges where available, and a complimentary meal served at your seat.

Both classes provide a relaxing environment for the daytime journey. There are no sleeping accommodations since this is not an overnight train. Business class is popular with business travelers and those wanting extra comfort, while Economy is practical for budget-conscious tourists. You can read more about food on Amtrak and VIA trains to understand the dining options. Wi-Fi is generally available, allowing you to work or stream content. Check the VIA Rail passes and discounts page for potential savings on your tickets.