Welcome to the beautiful city of Montreal, Canada, where the French language, culture, and history come alive. This city is home to beautiful architecture, world-class museums, and a vibrant food scene. But what if you want to explore beyond Montreal and discover another beautiful city? Well, the Via Rail train ride from Montreal to Ottawa is the perfect opportunity to do just that.
The train ride from Montreal to Ottawa on Via Rail takes you through stunning landscapes of eastern Canada. From the city of Montreal, the train ride takes you through the scenic towns and villages of the Quebec countryside. As the train journey continues, you'll pass through lush forests, picturesque lakes, and small towns before arriving in the capital of Canada, Ottawa.
Here is everything you need to know about taking a Via Rail train trip from Montreal to Ottawa.
Getting to the Train Station
The Montreal Train Station, also known as Gare Centrale, is located in the heart of Montreal and is accessible via various modes of transportation. If you're staying in downtown Montreal, you can walk to the train station in just a few minutes. The train station is also easily accessible by bus, taxi, or metro. If you're coming from the airport, the most convenient option is to take the 747 bus, which stops at the train station.
Booking Your Train Ticket
To book your train ticket, you can visit the Via Rail website, use their mobile app, or call their customer service number. You can choose from different classes of service, including Economy, Business, and Sleeper Plus. The Economy class offers comfortable seats and access to the dining car, while Business class provides more spacious seating, additional amenities, and priority boarding. The Sleeper Plus class offers private cabins with beds, meals, and access to the Panorama car, which offers stunning views of the landscape.
The cost of the ticket varies depending on the class of service you choose, as well as the time of year and day of the week you travel. To get the best deals, it's recommended to book your ticket well in advance and avoid traveling during peak hours and weekends.
What to Expect on the Train Ride
The train ride from Montreal to Ottawa takes approximately 2.5 hours and covers a distance of about 200 kilometers. The train departs from the Montreal Train Station and arrives at the Ottawa Train Station, which is located in the downtown area.
During the train ride, you'll have access to the dining car, where you can purchase food and drinks. The menu features a variety of options, including sandwiches, salads, hot meals, and beverages. The food is freshly prepared and reasonably priced, making it a great way to enjoy a meal while taking in the scenic views outside.
Safety Considerations
When traveling on Via Rail, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Follow all safety guidelines provided by the staff and crew.
Pay attention to safety announcements and instructions.
Keep your luggage close to you at all times and never leave it unattended.
Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the staff.
Avoid bringing valuables with you on the train and keep important documents and money in a safe place.
Exploring Ottawa
Once you arrive in Ottawa, you'll be greeted by a beautiful city filled with history, culture, and stunning architecture. Some of the must-see attractions in Ottawa include:
Parliament Hill: The iconic government building is located in the heart of downtown Ottawa and offers guided tours.
Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is a beautiful waterway that connects Ottawa to Kingston.
As you continue along the route, you'll see some of the most beautiful and picturesque Canadian countryside. The Ottawa River, which separates the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, runs alongside the track for much of the journey, providing stunning views of the water and the surrounding forests. You may even spot some wildlife along the way, such as moose or deer.
As you arrive in Ottawa, you'll be greeted by the stunning architecture of the city, including the famous Parliament buildings, which are visible from the train station. This is a great time to explore the city on foot, as many of the major attractions, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Rideau Canal, are within walking distance of the station.
In terms of safety considerations, traveling on Via Rail is generally considered safe and secure. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close to you, especially when disembarking the train at stops along the way.
It's also important to note that the train can be quite chilly, so be sure to bring a sweater or jacket with you for the journey. Additionally, if you plan on bringing luggage with you, be aware that there are restrictions on the size and weight of baggage allowed on the train, so be sure to check with Via Rail's policies before you go.
Overall, a trip on Via Rail from Montreal to Ottawa is a fantastic way to see some of Canada's most beautiful scenery and experience the country's rich history and culture. With its comfortable seating, stunning views, and convenient schedule, it's the perfect way to travel between these two iconic Canadian cities.
