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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Halifax to Kingston. Traveling by train from Halifax to Kingston usually takes 26 hours and 50 minutes, but the fastest VIA Rail train can make the trip in 25 hours and 41 minutes.
| Distance | 637 mi (1025 km) |
| Fastest train | 25h 41m |
| Lowest price | CHF 126.90 |
| Most frequent service | VIA Rail |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Halifax to Kingston?
VIA Rail is the one and only train line which connects Halifax to Kingston. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIA Rail | 2 | 1d 2h 50m | CHF 132.67 |
VIA Rail, also known as Via Rail Canada or simply VIA, provides service across the Canadian provinces and territories, including 2 daily trips between Halifax and Kingston. 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 Kingston is approximately 637 miles, or 1025 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 26 hours and 50 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 25 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 Halifax to Kingston are the most crowded on Thursday. 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Halifax at 1:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 1:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Halifax twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. 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 change 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 Kingston 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.
Kingston
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.
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 Kingston?
Image credit: Michael Nugent
Link to image attribution
Image credit: abdallahh
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Kingston VIA Station
Opened in 1974, the Kingston VIA Rail Station is the principal intercity rail transportation hub in Kingston, offering rail services throughout Ontario. The station is currently served by two VIA Rail lines: Toronto-Ottawa and Toronto-Montreal. Public restrooms, vending machines, a snack bar, and wheelchair access points are just some of the station's amenities. The station also offers both long-term and short-term parking slots.
All train stations in Kingston:
Kingston VIA Station
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