Montreal to Ottawa Day Trip: Quick Facts for 2025
Planning a quick escape to Canada’s capital? Here is everything you need to know at a glance for your day trip from Montreal to Ottawa.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~200 km (125 miles) |
| Average Travel Time | 2 hours (each way) |
| Best Way to Travel | Train (VIA Rail) for comfort and convenience |
| Estimated Day Trip Cost | $115 – $245 CAD per person |
| Best Time to Visit | May (Tulip Festival), July 1st (Canada Day), Feb (Winterlude) |
How to Get from Montreal to Ottawa (3 Best Ways)
Embarking on a day trip from Montreal to Ottawa is surprisingly simple, with several great options to fit your budget and travel style. While driving offers flexibility, for a seamless one-day adventure, the train is often the perfect balance of speed, cost, and comfort, letting you relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about traffic or parking.
By Train: The Relaxing & Scenic Route
The VIA Rail journey is arguably the best way to travel for a day trip. The trip takes approximately 2 hours, whisking you from Montreal’s downtown Gare Centrale to Ottawa Station. Onboard, you can enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi and snack service, making the travel time productive or simply relaxing. For the best prices, book your “Escape” fare tickets well in advance. Keep in mind that Ottawa’s train station is not directly downtown, but it’s conveniently connected to the city center by a short taxi ride or the O-Train LRT from Tremblay station.
By Car: The Flexible Road Trip
If you crave freedom and spontaneity, driving is a solid choice. The route via Autoroute 40 and Highway 417 is straightforward and takes about 2 hours without traffic. The main advantage is flexibility—you can leave whenever you want and make stops along the way. However, the downside for a day trip is dealing with potential traffic leaving Montreal and the challenge of finding and paying for parking in downtown Ottawa. Garages like the World Exchange Plaza or City Hall are good options, but expect to pay around $20-25 for a full day.
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
For travelers keeping a close eye on their wallet, the bus is the most economical way to go. Companies like Orléans Express and Megabus offer regular service between the two cities. The journey takes a bit longer, around 2.5 to 3 hours, which cuts into your valuable sightseeing time. While it’s a reliable and affordable option, the extra travel duration makes for a tighter schedule on a one-day trip.
Transportation Comparison
| Mode | Duration (One Way) | Avg. Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (VIA Rail) | ~2 hours | $80 – $150 CAD | Fast, comfortable, relaxing, scenic | Station is not downtown, price varies |
| Car | ~2 hours | $40 (gas) + $25 (parking) | Total flexibility, can make stops | Traffic, expensive parking, stressful |
| Bus | 2.5 – 3 hours | $60 – $100 CAD | Most affordable option | Longest travel time, less comfortable |
Top 5 Things to Do in Ottawa for One Day
With just one day in Ottawa, you’ll want to focus on the iconic sights clustered around the downtown core. This curated list hits all the highlights, giving you the perfect taste of Canada’s capital city.
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Explore Parliament Hill
No trip to Ottawa is complete without visiting the heart of Canadian democracy. The stunning Gothic revival architecture of the Parliament buildings is a sight to behold. Wander the grounds, see the Centennial Flame, and admire the Peace Tower. While the main Centre Block is undergoing long-term renovations, you can still take free guided tours of the House of Commons (in the West Block) and the Senate (in Ottawa’s former train station). Be sure to book these popular tours online well in advance!
Day Trip Tip: Security screening is mandatory and similar to an airport. Pack light and arrive a few minutes early for your tour to get through quickly.
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Stroll (or Skate!) the Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is Ottawa’s historic waterway and a hub of activity year-round. In the summer, it’s a beautiful place for a walk, watching boats pass through the locks next to the Fairmont Château Laurier. In the winter, it transforms into the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. Access is free, and skate rentals are readily available.
Day Trip Tip: In winter, even if you don’t skate, walking along the canal and grabbing a hot chocolate and a BeaverTail pastry is a classic Ottawa experience.
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Wander Through ByWard Market
Established in 1826, the ByWard Market is one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets. Just a short walk from Parliament Hill, this vibrant four-block area is packed with artisan stalls, unique shops, cozy pubs, and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to grab lunch, find a locally made souvenir, and soak up the city’s lively atmosphere.
Day Trip Tip: For a quick and delicious lunch that won’t slow you down, grab a bite from one of the many food stalls. You absolutely must try a BeaverTail pastry here!
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Admire Art at the National Gallery of Canada
Instantly recognizable by the giant Maman spider sculpture out front, the National Gallery of Canada is a must-visit for art lovers. Its stunning glass architecture houses the country’s most comprehensive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, alongside notable European masterpieces. It’s an excellent indoor activity, especially on a rainy or chilly day.
Day Trip Tip: If your day trip from Montreal falls on a Thursday, take advantage of free general admission in the evening from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
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Cross into Quebec to the Canadian Museum of History
Just a scenic walk across the Alexandra Bridge from Ottawa, you’ll find yourself in Gatineau, Quebec, and at the steps of the Canadian Museum of History. The museum’s incredible architecture is as impressive as its contents. Don’t miss the Grand Hall, with its towering totem poles and stunning views back across the river to Parliament Hill. The Canadian History Hall offers a sweeping journey through the nation’s past.
Day Trip Tip: The walk across the Alexandra Bridge offers one of the absolute best photo opportunities in the city, with a panoramic view of the Ottawa skyline.
A Perfect One-Day Trip from Montreal to Ottawa: Sample Itinerary
Wondering how to fit it all in? Here’s a realistic schedule to maximize your 2025 day trip and experience the best of Ottawa.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Depart Montreal’s Gare Centrale via VIA Rail. Grab a coffee and relax! |
| 9:00 AM | Arrive at Ottawa Station. Hop on the O-Train LRT towards downtown. |
| 9:45 AM | Arrive at Parliament Hill. Explore the grounds and take your pre-booked tour of the Senate or House of Commons. |
| 12:00 PM | Walk over to ByWard Market for a bustling lunch experience. Grab a sandwich and a mandatory BeaverTail for dessert. |
| 1:30 PM | Take a scenic walk along the Rideau Canal Locks, watching the boats and enjoying the view of the Château Laurier. |
| 2:30 PM | Choose Your Museum: Head to the National Gallery of Canada for art or walk across the bridge to the Canadian Museum of History. |
| 5:00 PM | Enjoy a quick happy hour drink at a pub in the ByWard Market, like The Laffayette. |
| 6:30 PM | Take the LRT from Rideau Station back towards Ottawa’s train station (Tremblay). |
| 7:30 PM | Depart Ottawa on your evening VIA Rail train. |
| 9:30 PM | Arrive back in Montreal, full of new memories. |
Where to Eat: Ottawa’s Best Bites for a Day Tripper
For a day trip, you need food that is quick, iconic, and centrally located. The ByWard Market is your best friend for delicious and efficient eats.
Quick & Classic ($)
- BeaverTails (ByWard Market): You cannot visit Ottawa without trying this iconic, hot, fried-dough pastry topped with cinnamon sugar or other sweet treats.
- Sasha’s Tacos / Corazón de Maíz (ByWard Market): Tucked inside the market building, these spots serve up some of the best and fastest tacos in the city. Perfect for a quick refuel.
Sit-Down Lunch ($$)
- The Laffayette (ByWard Market): Affectionately known as “The Laff,” this is Ottawa’s oldest tavern (est. 1849). It’s a great spot for a pint and some classic pub fare in a historic setting.
- D’Arcy McGee’s Irish Pub (Sparks Street): Another excellent option for a satisfying pub lunch, conveniently located on a historic pedestrian street near Parliament.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Perfect Day
Make your 2025 day trip seamless with these pro tips.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: This is non-negotiable! Ottawa’s downtown is very compact and walkable, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the day exploring.
- Book in Advance: This is the most important tip! Train tickets (especially VIA’s “Escape” fares) and free Parliament tours get booked up weeks or even months ahead. Plan early to save money and avoid disappointment.
- Check for Festivals: Your trip might coincide with amazing events like Winterlude (February), the Canadian Tulip Festival (May), or Canada Day (July 1st). These add incredible energy to the city but also mean bigger crowds and a need for earlier planning.
- Use the O-Train: Ottawa’s LRT system is the cleanest and easiest way to get from the VIA Rail station to the downtown core (Rideau or Parliament stations).
- Embrace Bilingualism: Ottawa is officially bilingual. While English is spoken everywhere, a friendly “Bonjour” is always appreciated and adds to the experience.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A portable phone charger/power bank
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Your camera or smartphone for photos
- Government-issued ID (required for Parliament tours)
- Credit/debit cards (most places are cashless)
- Seasonal Additions:
- Summer: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- Winter: A warm hat (toque), gloves, a scarf, and thermal layers
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Here’s a realistic look at what a day trip from Montreal to Ottawa might cost, allowing you to plan accordingly.
| Item | Low-End Estimate (CAD) | High-End Estimate (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Train/Bus) | $80 | $150 |
| Lunch & Snacks | $25 | $50 |
| Attractions/Activities | $0 | $25 |
| Local Transit (LRT/Uber) | $10 | $20 |
| Total | ~$115 | ~$245 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Montreal to Ottawa?
Yes, absolutely! The 2-hour travel time each way by train or car makes it a very easy and popular day trip. Ottawa’s main attractions are conveniently concentrated in the downtown area, making them highly walkable and perfect for a single day of exploration.
How much is an Uber from Montreal to Ottawa?
An Uber is not a practical or economical option for this distance. A one-way trip can cost anywhere from $250 to $400+ CAD. For a day trip, taking the VIA Rail train or an intercity bus is significantly more affordable and efficient.
What to do in Ottawa for one day?
For a single day, focus on the absolute must-sees: tour the grounds of Parliament Hill, take a scenic walk along the Rideau Canal, grab a famous BeaverTail pastry in the ByWard Market, and if time allows, visit one of the world-class national museums like the National Gallery of Canada or the Canadian Museum of History.
What is there to see between Montreal and Ottawa?
While there are some charming towns and attractions like Parc Oméga wildlife park in Montebello, they require a significant detour off the main highway. For a focused day trip where your time in the capital is maximized, it’s best to travel directly between the two cities. Save those in-between stops for a longer, multi-day road trip.
TL;DR: Your Montreal to Ottawa Day Trip in a Nutshell
In a hurry? Here’s the short version for your 2025 adventure:
- Best Way to Go: Take the 2-hour VIA Rail train for a stress-free ride. Book early!
- Top 3 Must-Dos: See Parliament Hill, walk the Rideau Canal, and eat a BeaverTail in ByWard Market.
- Getting Around: Once you arrive, Ottawa’s downtown is extremely walkable. Use the O-Train to get from the train station to the city center.
- Budget: Plan for about $115 to $250 CAD per person for the entire day.
- Key Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and book your train and any tours far in advance!
