Now that you know how to get to Kingston by car, train, bus, or bike, it’s time to plan your visit. Check routes, confirm parking, and map out your stop in Downtown Kingston’s shops, restaurants, and waterfront.
How to Get to Kingston
Downtown Kingston is located between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, making it one of Ontario’s most accessible waterfront destinations. If you’re planning how to get to Kingston, you’ll find it’s easy year-round - whether you're driving along Highway 401, arriving by VIA Rail, or travelling by intercity bus, getting to Kingston is straightforward and stress-free.
Getting To Kingston By Bicycle
Kingston is a bike-friendly city with scenic waterfront routes, dedicated cycling lanes, and regional trail connections.
Cyclists can access Downtown Kingston via the Kingston Waterfront Trail and the K&P Trail, both offering safe and scenic entry points into the city core.
Bike tracks are available throughout downtown near major attractions, restaurants, and retail areas. Visitors arriving by train or bus can also bring bicycles, subject to carrier policies.
Cycling is an excellent way to explore the waterfront, historic neighbourhoods, and downtown attractions at your own pace.
Getting To Kingston By Car
Kingston is located directly off Highway 401, making it an easy drive from major cities across Ontario and Quebec.
From Toronto it is approximately 2.5 hours (260 km), from Ottawa approximately 2 hours (200 km), and from Montreal approximately 3 hours (290 km).
To reach Downtown Kingston, take Highway 401 exits at Division Street or Sir John A. Macdonald Boulevard and follow signs toward the waterfront and city centre.
Downtown streets such as Princess Street, Ontario Street, King Street East, Queen Street, and Brock Street provide direct access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Public parking garages and street parking are available throughout the downtown core. Be sure to check parking signage or visit our parking page for current rates and locations.
Or check out this map.
Getting to Kingston by Bus
Intercity bus services such as Megabus and FlixBus operate multiple daily routes to Kingston from Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Windsor, and Mississauga.
Most buses arrive at the Kingston Bus Terminal (1175 John Counter Boulevard), located just south of Highway 401 between Division Street and Sir John A. Macdonald Boulevard.
From the bus terminal, visitors can take local transit, taxis, or rideshare services to Downtown Kingston, typically a 10–15 minute trip.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during weekends, holidays, and the summer tourism season.
Getting to Kingston by Train
VIA Rail operates daily service to Kingston from Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, offering a comfortable alternative to highway travel.
Toronto to Kingston is approximately 2.5 hours, Ottawa to Kingston is approximately 2 hours, and Montreal to Kingston is approximately 2.5 hours.
The Kingston VIA Rail station is located at 1800 John Counter Boulevard, approximately a 15-minute drive from Downtown Kingston. Taxis, rideshare services, and local transit are available outside the station for convenient transportation into the city centre.
Travelling by train is ideal during winter months or busy travel periods when highway traffic may be heavier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kingston is approximately 260 km (2.5 hours) east of Toronto via Highway 401.
You can reach Kingston by bus using services like Megabus or Flixbus, which offer routes from major cities. Check their schedules for the most convenient times.
VIA Rail provides train services to Kingston from cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. Check VIA Rail's website for schedules and ticket booking.
Plan your visit by checking transportation options, booking accommodations in advance, and exploring local attractions.
Yes. Visitors can choose from street parking, public parking garages, and municipal lots located throughout the downtown core.