Ultimate Guide: Travel Options from Toronto to Niagara Falls by Bus, Train, and Car

We regularly visit Niagara Falls, one of our favorite year-round destinations in Ontario, and we want to share useful information on how to travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls for both locals and tourists.

How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls

Ever since 1991, we’ve made time for weekend getaways to Niagara Falls. However, we never considered taking the bus or public transit until we teamed up with Busbud for a bus trip. There are several travel methods to Niagara Falls from Toronto, including bus, train, public transit, and car travel.

Travel Times to Niagara from Toronto

• Highway Driving – 90 minutes in light traffic (however, expect traffic delays).
• Public Transit GO Train/Go Bus – 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Bus Travel – Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes (dependent on traffic).

Toronto to Niagara Falls by Car

Driving from Toronto to Niagara Falls is straightforward and offers flexibility with stops. This is our typical method of visiting. For a scenic experience, we enjoy driving to Niagara on the Lake for wine tours or exploring shops in Hamilton. Here’s how to navigate:

Route

The most direct route is the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) southbound from Toronto.

Duration

The drive typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Tips

Checking real-time traffic updates with apps like Google Maps or Waze is advisable. Parking is available close to the falls, but expect crowded conditions during peak times, potentially resulting in higher rates. Early arrival or off-site parking is recommended.

Directions from Downtown Toronto to Niagara Falls

• Start from Downtown Toronto and navigate to the Gardiner Expressway West.
• Merge onto Gardiner Expressway West. Follow signs for QEW/Hamilton.
• Continue onto the QEW. Transition into the QEW as you move westward at Burlington.
• Bypass Hamilton. As you approach Hamilton, the QEW will split. Stay on the QEW Niagara for Niagara Falls.
• Follow the QEW through St. Catharines. Continue following signs for Niagara Falls/Fort Erie.
• Exit at Niagara Falls. Choose from exits for McLeod Rd or ON-420 depending on your destination.
• Follow local roads. Utilize local signage or navigation to reach your desired area in Niagara Falls.

Toronto to Niagara Falls by Megabus

The Megabus terminal in Toronto is located at Union Station. Buses depart throughout the day, starting at 6:00 a.m. For those with limited time, an early bus offers a full day in Niagara, allowing a return trip at 11 p.m.

Check schedules for the Megabus service located at 30 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M8W 1N4, which also serves Scarborough.

Arrival in Niagara Falls by Bus

The Niagara Falls bus terminal is centrally located in the Queens Street District at 4555 Eerie Avenue. For transportation from there, taxis and ridesharing services like Uber are readily available. It’s a 30-minute walk to Clifton Hill.

FLIXBUS provides additional transportation options from either downtown Toronto or Scarborough to attractions like Fallsview Casino which is closer to popular sites such as Skylon Tower and Table Rock Centre.

Toronto to Niagara By Go Train Transit

GO Transit offers a convenient travel option from Toronto to Niagara Falls. For just $18 CAD roundtrip, passengers can enjoy a relaxing journey from Union Station, which includes a WEGO Bus pass for easy access to main attractions.

Special Weekend Service: Direct train service is available during summer weekends and specific holidays.

Tips: A PRESTO card simplifies fare payment, easily topping up when necessary. Always check the GO Transit schedule ahead of time due to varying weekend timings.

Toronto Airports

If you’re flying in from abroad to visit Niagara Falls, you’ll likely arrive at either Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) or Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ), the latter being situated downtown.

Options for reaching Niagara Falls from the airport include car rentals, public transit systems, or shuttle services. Each provides a viable route for travelers.

Options for Traveling from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Niagara Falls

1. Driving (Rental Car):

• Directions:
  1. Exit the airport and merge onto ON-427 South.
  2. Take the exit for the QEW towards Hamilton.
  3. Continue on the QEW towards Niagara/Fort Erie.
  4. As you approach, take the appropriate exit for your destination.
• Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

2. Shuttle Service:

• Various shuttle services operate between Pearson International Airport and Niagara Falls. Booking in advance is recommended.
• Duration: Similar to driving, the travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. Public Transit:

• GO Transit:
  1. Take the UP Express train to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
  2. Transfer to the GO Train to Burlington or St. Catharines, then connect to a GO Bus to Niagara Falls.
• Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, including connection wait times.

4. Private Taxi or Ride Share:

• Uber and Lyft operate from the airport, along with traditional taxi services.
• Duration: Roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, contingent on traffic conditions.

5. Direct Bus:

• Companies such as Megabus provide direct bus services from Pearson Airport to Niagara Falls. Check for schedules and availability.
• Duration: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Factors such as traffic, time of day, and other conditions can affect travel times. Therefore, always allow for extra time, especially if you have specific plans in Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls Attraction Quick Tips

Niagara Falls offers various attraction passes. The Niagara Attractions Pass from Niagara Parks allows bundling several top attractions for a flat fee, including Hornblower Cruises, Journey Behind the Falls, and more.

You can buy an Adventure Pass for additional savings, valid for a year from the date of purchase.

Is there a direct train from Toronto to Niagara?

Yes, Via Rail operates a direct train from Toronto to Niagara, with limited daily service. Reservations are necessary, and the fare is approximately $35 CAD.

Is there a bus from Toronto to Niagara Falls?

Yes, several buses depart daily from Toronto to Niagara Falls, starting from the main bus terminal on Dundas Street downtown.

How Far is Niagara Falls from Toronto?

Niagara Falls is situated 128 km from Toronto, taking approximately 2 hours to drive. Bus journeys may last between 2 hours and 10 minutes to 3.5 hours depending on the number of stops.

Can I get to Niagara Falls from Toronto Pearson International Airport by Bus?

Direct buses leave from Toronto Pearson Airport several times daily to Niagara Falls. For up-to-date schedules and costs, check Busbud.