by Turo
posted on June 5, 2025
The Montreal to Ottawa drive is simple, direct, and easy to make your own. With a few stops along the way, you can turn it into so much more than just over two hours on the highway. This road trip guide covers what to expect, where to take a break and explore, and how to make the most of the trip!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Tips for driving from Montreal to Ottawa
- How are the road conditions between Montreal and Ottawa?
- What is the best time of year to drive from Montreal to Ottawa?
- Are there EV chargers along the way between Montreal and Ottawa?
- Where to stop while driving from Montreal to Ottawa
- Frequently asked questions about the Montreal to Ottawa drive
- Book your rental car in Montreal with Turo
Tips for driving from Montreal to Ottawa
Driving from Montreal to Ottawa is straightforward and makes for an easy weekend getaway. Take Autoroute 40 west, which becomes Highway 417 after the Ontario border. It’s a direct line to downtown Ottawa, but check for roadwork before you leave the city.
How are the road conditions between Montreal and Ottawa?
The highway between Ottawa and Montreal is well maintained year-round, with wide shoulders, regular signage, and steady traffic flow. Winter storms can slow things down near the Quebec side, but snow removal is fast and reliable.
What is the best time of year to drive from Montreal to Ottawa?
Summer has longer days and clear roads, while autumn brings lighter traffic and beautiful views of the colours changing. A winter road trip is an option, too, but drive carefully and set aside extra time if the forecast calls for snow.
Are there EV chargers along the way between Montreal and Ottawa?
You’ll find fast-charging stations for your electric car in Vaudreuil, Casselman, and Ottawa. Most are located at gas stations or highway rest stops. It’s easy to top up while you grab a coffee or take a short break.
Where to stop while driving from Montreal to Ottawa
You don’t need to go far off route to make the drive to Ottawa something special. There are parks where you can see local wildlife, heritage sites, and local food spots that break up the trip without slowing you down. Here are five stops worth planning for!
Ecomuseum Zoo
You’ll pass this open-air wildlife park just before taking the bridge off the West Island of Montreal. It’s home to over 100 species native to Quebec and is an easy, quiet place to explore before getting on the highway.
- Distance from Montreal: 35 km (~30 minutes)
- Distance to Ottawa: 170 km (~2 hours)
Why it’s great
The Ecomuseum Zoo is easy to reach, affordable, and perfect for a slow morning. You can walk the whole park in about an hour and see everything from lynx to river otters.
Practical tips
The walking trails are flat and stroller-friendly. Bring water and dress for the weather – this is a fully outdoor experience with limited shade in summer.
How to get there
It’s a straight drive from the airport on Autoroute 40 West, making it a great first stop after landing. Book your Montreal airport car rental with Turo and have it delivered when you arrive to hit the road right away.
Omega Park
Omega Park is a drive-through wildlife experience in Montebello, where animals like elk, bison, and wolves roam open enclosures. It’s about halfway between Montreal and Ottawa, and makes for an easy, family-friendly stop.
- Distance from Montreal: 100 km (~1 hour)
- Distance to Ottawa: 90 km (~1 hour)
Why it’s great
You stay in your car the whole time, making it perfect for all ages. Kids can feed deer through the windows while adults take great photos.
Practical tips
Buy a bag of carrots at the entrance – they’re the approved snack for the animals. Go early on weekends to avoid long entry lines.
How to get there
Take Autoroute 50 west and follow signs for Montebello. A minivan gives everyone room to move and makes the drive-through more comfortable. Explore options from Chevrolet, Chrysler, or Ford for plenty of cargo space for strollers, gear, and souvenirs.
Upper Canada Village
Set along the St. Lawrence River, Upper Canada Village is a must-see stop where you can explore 1860s historic buildings, mills, and working farms. It makes a great midday stop to stretch your legs and learn something new!
- Distance from Montreal: 135 km (~1.5 hours)
- Distance to Ottawa: 85 km (~1 hour)
Why it’s great
This is definitely one of Eastern Ontario’s hidden gems. It’s peaceful, hands-on, and there’s something different around every corner.
Practical tips
Wear comfortable shoes and allow two to three hours to explore. There’s on-site dining, but you can also pack a cooler and eat along the waterfront.
How to get there
From Autoroute 20, head south toward Morrisburg. The drive opens up after you leave the highway. For all-day comfort for your passengers and cargo space for luggage, check out SUV options from Toyota, Subaru, or Jeep.
ByWard Market
Once you arrive in Canada’s capital, make some time to explore ByWard Market – one of Ottawa’s oldest neighbourhoods. It’s full of local shops, bakeries, patios, and farmers’ stalls. It’s easy to visit and tough to leave without picking up something good.
- Distance from Montreal: 200 km (~2 hours)
Why it’s great
It’s a lively spot to eat, walk, and shop. You can cover a lot in just an hour or two without leaving downtown Ottawa.
Practical tips
Metered parking fills up fast, especially midday. Look for side streets or indoor lots, and avoid circling during peak hours.
How to get there
Exit Highway 417 at Nicholas Street and head toward Rideau. A compact car rental is the best bet here – easy to park and navigate through traffic. Make your Montreal rental car a city-friendly model from BMW, Nissan, or Mercedes-Benz.
Parliament Hill
The heart of Canada’s government, Parliament Hill, sits above the Ottawa River with sweeping views and historic architecture. It’s walkable, scenic, and the kind of place that feels different depending on the time of day you arrive.
Distance from Montreal: 200 km (~2 hours)
Why it’s great
The grounds are open to the public and easy to explore. You can take a guided tour or just wander and take in the sights and the Canadian history.
Practical tips
Arrive early for better photo spots and lighter foot traffic. Most walking paths are paved, with public washrooms nearby.
How to get there
Take Wellington Street west through the city. Choose an electric vehicle or Tesla as your rental car in Montreal for a quieter ride through the city and lower emissions. There are lots of charging stations nearby, so you can top up while you explore.
Frequently asked questions about the Montreal to Ottawa road trip
Where is Ottawa?
Ottawa is in eastern Ontario, right on the border with Quebec. It sits along the Ottawa River, across from Gatineau, and is about 200 km west of Montreal.
Most visitors either drive in from Toronto or Montreal or fly into Ottawa International Airport. If you’re landing at YOW, book an Ottawa airport car rental with Turo and start your trip with delivery right to the terminal.
Can you do a day trip to Ottawa from Montreal?
The drive takes about two hours each way, making a day trip from Montreal totally doable. Leave early, aim for one or two stops, and plan to head back before evening traffic picks up.
What is the fastest way to drive from Montreal to Ottawa?
Take Autoroute 40 west out of Montreal. It becomes Highway 417 after you cross into Ontario, and leads straight into Ottawa.
Are there tolls between Montreal and Ottawa?
Nope – there are no tolls on Autoroute 40 or Highway 417. The entire drive is toll-free!
Is parking easy in Ottawa?
It depends where you stop. Downtown can be busy during the day, but there are underground lots and metered street parking near most major local attractions. Arriving early gives you more options and makes the whole day feel easier.
Book your rental car in Montreal with Turo
Skip the rental counter and start your Ontario road trip your way! With Turo, you can book the exact vehicle you want and have it delivered to the airport, your hotel, or anywhere in the city.
Choose something that fits your plans — compact, roomy, electric, or just fun to drive – and get ready for a road trip to remember!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
