Ottawa to Kingston train

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.

Kingston is a beautiful lake city where the past and present intermingle at every turn, offering visitors of all ages and interests something to enjoy. History enthusiasts should visit Fort Henry National Historic Site to see remnants of old military conquest. Next, head to Bellevue House, the former home of Canada's first Prime Minister and perhaps the best example of the old-world Victorian architecture in the city.

Located on the northern tip of Lake Ontario, Kingston is brimming with watersports, bike trails, and mountain hikes for those that want to immerse themselves in nature—the Thousand Islands National Park and Frontenac Provincial Park, situated just outside of the city, are two highlights.

Kingston also harbors a bustling urban culture comprising live music, antique markets, and culinary excellence that is best experienced simply by walking around and following your eyes and nose. Raise a glass in any of Kingston's award-winning wineries or microbreweries before heading downtown to dine at one of the many international restaurants.

The city is well-placed and offers easy connections via rail and bus to major urban centers like Toronto and Montreal. Norman Rogers Airport is the quickest way to get around regionally, while the historic Rideau Canal provides Ottawa-bound travelers a slower but incredibly scenic mode of transport.