Air Travel
- Companies: Air Canada, Delta Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours (including layover)
- Distance: 1,200 km
- Costs: Approximately $400 CAD (ticket prices fluctuate based on booking time and demand)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book your flights in advance and consider using a fare comparison tool to find the best prices; flying mid-week often yields cheaper options.
Train Travel
- Companies: VIA Rail, Amtrak
- Duration: Approximately 11 hours
- Distance: 1,100 km
- Costs: Approximately $120 CAD (VIA Rail) + $50 CAD (Amtrak) = $170 CAD
- Roads/Routes: VIA Rail from Ottawa to Toronto, then transfer to Amtrak for Hamilton
Pro Tip: Use VIA Rail's business class for a more comfortable journey, which includes enhanced seating and complimentary refreshments.
Drive
- Companies: [Car Rental Companies such as Enterprise, Hertz]
- Duration: Approximately 9 hours
- Distance: 700 km
- Costs: Approx. $100 CAD (fuel) + $50 CAD (toll fees) + $100 CAD (car rental) = $250 CAD
- Roads/Routes: Take ON-416 S and then follow ON-401 W to the United States border. Continue via I-75 S towards Hamilton.
Pro Tip: Check for any updates on road conditions or construction before you hit the road, as this can significantly affect travel times.
Recommendation
For this journey from Ottawa to Hamilton, the best option would be to fly due to the overall time efficiency despite slightly higher costs. However, if you prefer scenic routes and flexibility, driving is a pleasant alternative, especially with the opportunity to explore small towns along the way.