Planning a quick hop between Toronto and Hamilton? Here’s the short version: they’re close, connected, and easy to navigate. Expect roughly 70 km (about 43 miles) by road, with travel times ranging from under an hour off‑peak to about 90 minutes in heavy traffic. Read on for the best routes, options, and timing tips. 🚗⏱️
Distance and Travel Time at a Glance
- Road distance (Downtown to Downtown): ~70 km / 43 miles via Gardiner Expy → QEW → Hwy 403.
- Driving time: 50–60 minutes off‑peak; 70–100 minutes during rush hour or bad weather.
- Rail time (GO Transit): ~60–80 minutes from Union Station to Hamilton (West Harbour or via Aldershot + local transfer).
- Bus time: ~60–90 minutes depending on route and traffic.
- “As‑the‑crow‑flies” distance: ~60 km / 37 miles.
- From Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Hamilton Downtown: ~65 km / 40 miles; ~45–70 minutes by car.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- Fastest door‑to‑door: Drive outside rush hour. 🚗
- Most reliable in peak traffic: GO train, especially during weekday rush. 🚆
- Best budget choice: Regional bus (GO Bus); frequent and straightforward. 🚌
- Scenic option: Waterfront Trail by bike (plan 4–6 hours, one way). 🚴♀️
- No tolls on QEW/403; 407 ETR is tolled but can bypass jams.
How to Reach
By Car
Take the Gardiner Expressway west from downtown Toronto, merge onto the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way), then Highway 403 into Hamilton’s core. It’s the most direct and popular route. Navigation apps may sometimes suggest the 407 ETR to dodge congestion—handy during incidents, but remember it’s a toll highway.
When it’s quickest: Late mornings, early afternoons, or evenings after 7 p.m. Weekends can be smooth early morning. Expect slowdowns near the Burlington Skyway and the Oakville corridor during rush periods or construction. In winter, leave extra time for snow and ice. ❄️
Parking: Plenty of paid lots downtown and near the waterfront; street parking rules vary by block—check signage to avoid tickets.
By Train (GO Transit)
From Union Station, GO’s Lakeshore West line runs to Hamilton’s West Harbour station, with some trips connecting via Aldershot (Burlington) to a short bus link into Hamilton’s downtown. Trains are comfortable, have washrooms, and run frequently during commute hours.
Timing: Generally 60–80 minutes platform to platform. Add a few minutes if you need a local bus or rideshare to your final address. Pro tip: sit on the upper level for broad Lake Ontario views near Oakville and Burlington. 🌊
By Bus
GO Buses connect Toronto’s core to Hamilton throughout the day, often using express segments on the QEW. They’re a great fallback when train times don’t match your schedule, or for late evenings.
Timing: About 60–90 minutes depending on traffic; luggage space is available, and many services run direct to downtown Hamilton.
Rideshare or Taxi
Door‑to‑door convenience is the main draw, with the same road timings as a private car. Costs fluctuate with demand; consider scheduling ahead for early‑morning flights or late‑night returns. 🚖
Cycling (Scenic, Weather‑Dependent)
The Waterfront Trail follows Lake Ontario’s edge and links the two cities almost continuously. It’s roughly 70–80 km (43–50 miles) depending on your exact start and end points. Plan 4–6 hours, carry water and lights, and expect urban mixed‑use paths plus some road sections. 🚴♂️🌇
When to Travel for the Smoothest Ride
- Best windows: Weekdays 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; most evenings after 7 p.m.
- Rush hours to avoid: 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m. Both directions can clog, especially near interchanges.
- Weather watch: Lake‑effect snow, heavy rain, or summer storms can quickly add 15–30 minutes. Check conditions before you go. ⛈️
- Events: Major games, concerts, or festivals in either city can spike traffic and transit loads—leave earlier than usual.
Quick Facts Box
- Region: Southern Ontario, Canada
- Distance by road (core to core): ~70 km / 43 miles
- Typical travel time: 50–90 minutes, route and traffic dependent
- Primary routes: Gardiner Expy → QEW → Hwy 403
- Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
- Language: English widely spoken; services available in French
- Best season for easy driving: Late spring to early fall (May–October)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating rush hour: Add 20–40 minutes buffer if traveling near commute times.
- Ignoring the Burlington Skyway: High winds, collisions, or maintenance can cause backups—have an alternate route ready.
- Forgetting about 407 ETR tolls: It’s fast but not free; weigh time saved vs. cost.
- Arriving without last‑mile plan: If taking train/bus, know how you’ll reach your final stop—local transit, walks, or short rideshares.
Make It a Day Trip: Easy Stops Along the Way
- Oakville: Lakeside parks and coffee nooks for a stretch break. ☕
- Burlington: Walk the pier or Spencer Smith Park with skyline views. 🌅
- Hamilton: Explore the waterfront, Dundurn Castle, or the city’s famous waterfalls on the Niagara Escarpment. 💧
Weather Overview
Spring (Apr–May): Cool to mild; occasional rain. Great for lower traffic once snow season ends.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm and busiest. Leave early to beat beach‑bound traffic around Burlington/Oakville.
Fall (Sep–Oct): Crisp, colorful, and ideal for smooth drives—arguably the sweet spot. 🍁
Winter (Nov–Mar): Snow and ice possible. Carry an emergency kit and plan extra time. ❄️
FAQs
What is the driving distance between Toronto and Hamilton?
About 70 km (43 miles) from the downtown core of each city via the Gardiner, QEW, and Highway 403.
How long does it take to drive from Toronto to Hamilton during rush hour?
Plan for roughly 70–100 minutes, depending on incidents, weather, and your exact start and end points.
Is the train from Toronto to Hamilton faster than driving?
Often yes during peak traffic. The GO train typically takes about 60–80 minutes and avoids highway delays, though you may need a short transfer for last‑mile travel.
Are there tolls on the main route between Toronto and Hamilton?
No tolls on the QEW/403 corridor. The alternative 407 ETR is tolled but can be quicker when the QEW is jammed.
What’s the cheapest way to travel from Toronto to Hamilton?
Regional buses (like GO Bus) are usually the most budget‑friendly, with frequent service and direct routes to central Hamilton.
How far is Hamilton from Toronto Pearson Airport?
Approximately 65 km (40 miles) to downtown Hamilton, often 45–70 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Can I bike from Toronto to Hamilton safely?
Yes, experienced cyclists often use the Waterfront Trail. It’s a long but scenic ride (roughly 70–80 km). Use lights, follow local cycling rules, and check weather.
What’s the best time of day to travel between Toronto and Hamilton to avoid traffic?
Weekdays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., or after 7 p.m., usually offer the smoothest drive.
Conclusion
Whether you’re commuting, catching a game, or planning a day trip, the two cities sit comfortably within an hour’s reach. Pick the mode that fits your schedule—drive off‑peak for speed, ride the GO for stress‑free reliability, or hop a bus for value—and enjoy the short, well‑connected journey. 👍