Ottawa to Halifax train
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Trip Summary
There are 4 daily trains from Ottawa to Halifax. Traveling by train from Ottawa to Halifax usually takes around 26 hours and 19 minutes, but the fastest VIA Rail train can make the trip in 24 hours and 41 minutes.
| Distance | 594 mi (955 km) |
| Fastest train | 24h 41m |
| Lowest price | £122.66 |
| Most frequent service | VIA Rail |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Ottawa to Halifax?
VIA Rail is the one and only train line which connects Ottawa to Halifax. However, there are 4 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIA Rail | 4 | 1d 2h 19m | £122.66 |
VIA Rail, also known as Via Rail Canada or simply VIA, provides service across the Canadian provinces and territories, including 4 daily trips between Ottawa and Halifax. 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
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
The distance between Ottawa and Halifax is approximately 594 miles, or 955 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 26 hours and 19 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 24 hours and 41 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.
Trains from Ottawa to Halifax are the most crowded on Monday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Ottawa at 13:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 16:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Halifax to Ottawa.
City Information
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.
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Ottawa?
Main departure station: Fallowfield Train Station
There are two stations in Ottawa where you can board the train to Halifax.
All train stations in Ottawa:
Fallowfield Train Station
Ottawa Train Station
Where is the train station in Halifax?
Image credit: Stewart Rand
Link to image attributionMain arrival 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.
Train stations in Halifax:
Halifax VIA Station
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