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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Halifax to Ottawa. The train trip from Halifax to Ottawa is usually about 26 hours and 15 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 594 mi (955 km) |
| Fastest train | 26h 15m |
| Lowest price | $198.98 |
| Most frequent service | VIA Rail |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Halifax to Ottawa?
VIA Rail is the one and only train line which connects Halifax to Ottawa. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIA Rail | 1 | 1d 2h 15m | $198.98 |
VIA Rail, also known as Via Rail Canada or simply VIA, provides service across the Canadian provinces and territories, including 1 daily trips between Halifax and Ottawa. In addition to being completely green-certified, VIA Rail’s new, state-of-the-art trains feature amenities such as free reliable Wi-Fi, wide aisles, ergonomic seats, and wheelchair lifts in every accessible car. VIA Rail is known for its unparalleled customer service and snazzy black and yellow paint scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Halifax and Ottawa is approximately 594 miles, or 955 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 26 hours and 15 minutes,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Halifax to Ottawa on Thursday. Tickets for Thursday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Thursday. Thursday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Halifax at 1:00pm and arrives in Ottawa around 26 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Ottawa to Halifax.
City Information
Halifax
A historic city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, Halifax is heaven for culturally-inclined travelers and nature lovers alike. To fully understand the city’s amazing history, head over to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, which is a testament of the city’s military’s past. At noon, reenactors of the Royal Artillery will fire salvoes of the fortress’ noon guns, offering you a unique experience. As Halifax is also a seaport, don’t miss out on the chance to browse around the city’s Seaport Farmers Market, which was first opened nearly 300 years ago. In addition to some of the freshest sea produce around, the market also sells baked products, treats, soaps, and jewelry. If you wish to find some shade and stay away from the busy streets, Halifax Public Gardens, which features an unmistakable Victorian influence, will be a great choice.
The city is the absolute heaven for seafood lovers. For a fine-dining experience, The Press Gang Restaurant and Oyster Bar opens its door for you.
The city’s main VIA Rail train station is the Halifax Railway Station, which also serves as the main hub for intercity buses. The city’s main airport is the Halifax Stanfield International Airport.
Ottawa
If big cities such as Toronto or Montreal appear too crowded for your taste, consider Ottawa for a change. Boasting a small-town vibe with a vibrant art scene, the city will appeal to all kinds of travelers. Ottawa’s star attraction is the Rideau Canal, which meanders its way through the city center. In the summer months, the canal is full of boats and cyclists who wander about, and in the colder months of the year, it becomes the largest ice skating rink in the world. If you are a fan of architecture, don’t miss out on Parliament Hill, which features three amazing neo-Gothic structures. For those who seek to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, Gatineau Park, located just 15 minutes from Downtown, offers the reprieve you need.
Ottawa features a very diverse food scene that caters to everyone’s needs. If you just can’t get enough of French delicacies, head to Signatures Restaurant, which is housed in a Tudor Revival-style mansion. If you want to try out Canadian signatures, try Atelier instead.
The main intercity train station in town is Ottawa Station, which is served by VIA Rail. The city’s air services are handled by the Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport, which is located 5.5 miles south of the city’s downtown.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Halifax?
Image credit: Stewart Rand
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Halifax VIA Station
The VIA Rail Station is the center of intercity rail transportation in Halifax and offers gorgeous views alongside the Halifax Harbor as the trains depart. The grand, columned station first opened in 1928 and has received substantial renovations throughout the years to adapt to modern standards. The station has an enclosed waiting area with public restrooms and on-site customer service representatives. Just one VIA Rail line, the Ocean, runs from this station to Montreal. For further travel, passengers can easily transfer to bus service at the next door Maritime Bus Terminal.
All train stations in Halifax:
Halifax VIA Station
Where is the train station in Ottawa?
Image credit: shankar s.
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Tony Webster
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Ottawa Train Station
The Ottawa Station is the central station for intermodal transportation services in Ottawa. Constructed in 1966, the current station is an eclectic mix of modernism and Beaux-Arts, offering a unique design that makes it stand out from the crowd. The current station provides intercity bus services and rail services all from one convenient hub. The rail services are provided by VIA Rail, with possible destinations including Toronto and Montreal. In addition, Ontario Northland offers bus service, and there is also a shuttle bus line from the station to Montréal–Trudeau International Airport. On-station amenities include a parking lot with 330 spaces, bicycle parking racks, and disabled access.
Train stations in Ottawa:
Ottawa Train Station
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