posted on February 11, 2026
The Ottawa to Fredericton drive connects some of Canada’s most exciting cities with the charm and relaxation of the Maritimes. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or as a family, this road trip guide has everything you need to plan an unforgettable adventure.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Tips for driving from Ottawa to Fredericton
- How are the road conditions between Ottawa and Fredericton?
- What is the best time of year to drive from Ottawa to Fredericton?
- Are there EV chargers along the way between Ottawa and Fredericton?
- Where to stop while driving from Ottawa to Fredericton
- Frequently asked questions about the Ottawa to Fredericton road trip
- Book your rental car in Ottawa with Turo
Tips for driving from Ottawa to Fredericton
The drive from Ottawa to Fredericton is approximately 10 hours and 25 minutes long and spans a total distance of approximately 629 miles (1,012 km). While it’s possible to knock it out in one day, it’s a good idea to break it up over a few days to fully enjoy the journey.
Fredericton is one hour ahead of Ottawa, so don’t forget to adjust your watch to Atlantic Time when you cross into New Brunswick from Quebec.
How are the road conditions between Ottawa and Fredericton?
The Ottawa to Fredericton drive follows the Trans-Canada Highway, which is well-maintained and clearly signed. Roads are in good shape in Ontario and Quebec, but you may encounter construction zones and traffic near major cities.
As you enter New Brunswick, expect quieter stretches with well-paved roads with narrow or winding sections, especially in more remote areas. Be sure to stay alert for occasional changes in speed limits as you pass through small towns. The speed limit on the Trans-Canada Highway in New Brunswick is generally 110 km/h.
What is the best time of year to drive from Ottawa to Fredericton?
Summer is the best time for a Maritime road trip, offering the best weather throughout the region. With longer days and a full calendar of events, you can take your time and fully enjoy markets and outdoor activities at each pit stop.
Autumn is another great time to drive from Ottawa to Fredericton. You can count on fewer crowds, lower prices, and stunning fall colours.
Are there EV chargers along the way between Ottawa and Fredericton?
You can count on plenty of electric vehicle charging stations on the drive, especially in key cities like Montreal, Quebec City, and Fredericton.
It’s a good idea to plan your charging stops in advance for quieter stretches in New Brunswick. Program stops into your GPS to map out the chargers along the route for a worry-free drive.
Where to stop while driving from Ottawa to Fredericton
From cities packed with character to natural landscapes that will take your breath away, there is so much to discover on the Ottawa to Fredericton drive. Whether you want to sample a new food scene, discover local history, or simply get out of the car and stretch your legs, these five stops are bound to make your trip memorable.
Montreal
Leave Ontario behind and prepare to be pulled into the electric energy of Quebec’s cosmopolitan hub. Brimming with food, culture, and old-world architecture, Montreal is a must-stop on the drive from Ottawa to Fredericton. Consider booking a hotel for a night or two to discover the city and nearby attractions like Mont Tremblant.
- Distance from Ottawa: 200 km (~2.5 hours)
- Distance to Fredericton: 820 km (~8 hours 40 minutes)
Why it’s great
It’s one of Canada’s most eclectic cities, and each neighbourhood has a distinct vibe. Eat and drink your way through Little Italy and St Henri and admire the paintings of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts to fully indulge your senses.
Practical tips
Parking fills up quickly on weekends. Read signs carefully to avoid fines, or opt to take the metro to get around.
How to get there
Take Highway 417 east, merging onto Autoroute 40 toward Montréal. Follow signs for the Old Port area and stay alert for one-way streets. Opt for a compact Ottawa car rental to make driving and parking in Montreal easy and stress-free.
Québec City
Packed with history and culture, Quebec City is a notable stop along the way from Ottawa to Fredericton and one of Canada’s best places for a solo road trip. The old city’s location above the St. Lawrence River offers stunning views, and highlights like the Cathedral Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec are not to be missed.
- Distance from Ottawa: 445 km (~5 hours)
- Distance to Fredericton: 590 km (~6 hours)
Why it’s great
All the highlights of Old Quebec City are accessible on foot, allowing you to marvel at the riverside, city gates, and historic architecture within minutes of each other.
Practical tips
Parking in Old Quebec City is limited and fills up quickly. Arrive early to secure a space in a nearby parking garage and expect to walk a few blocks to access the historic centre.
How to get there
Enter Quebec City via Autoroute 40 or 20, heading east from Ottawa and Montreal. The city’s world-class dining call for a luxury car or sports car that is smooth, sleek, and refined. Models from BMW, Porsche, or Mercedes-Benz will make driving through this historic district a special part of the experience.
Montmorency Falls
Rising higher than Niagara Falls, Montmorency is an unmissable stop just east of Quebec City, making it a great day trip option or a short detour on the way to Fredericton. Climb the stairways, suspension bridges, and lookout platforms to experience this natural phenomenon from all angles.
- Distance from Ottawa: 455 km (~5 hours 15 minutes)
- Distance to Fredericton: 600 km (~6.5 hours)
Why it’s great
It’s an easy detour with awe-inspiring payoff. Climb to the top of the waterfall to appreciate both perspectives of the towering cascade.
Practical tips
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the steep staircases, which can be slippery after rain. Plan your visit around the mid-morning crowds, which often arrive in waves.
How to get there
Follow Autoroute 40 into the Quebec City area, then take the signed exit toward Montmorency Falls. Nearby Quebec City has reliable charging access, so booking an EV from Tesla, BMW, or Chevrolet as your Ottawa rental car is a great option to get to the falls.
Mauricie National Park
The lakes, forests, and rolling hills of Mauricie National Park is a nice detour for nature lovers. Stretch your legs on a short hike, or spend a few days camping to experience one of the best national parks in Quebec.
- Distance from Ottawa: 360 km (~4 hours)
- Distance to Fredericton: 890 km (~9.5 hours)
Why it’s great
Some of the most best sights and activities can be enjoyed within minutes of the park entrance, including scenic lookouts and canoe rentals.
Practical tips
Cell coverage and services are limited inside the park, so come prepared with offline maps downloaded as well as food, fuel, and water. Check posted hours for access roads and facilities.
How to get there
Take Highway 40 east to Shawinigan, then follow Route 351 north into the park. SUVs from Jeep, Ford, or Subaru are a good option here, offering comfortable handling on the park’s terrain.
Fredericton, NB
Known for its unique riverside location, downtown Fredericton balances city life with outdoor beauty. Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest at your destination, then get ready to explore tree-lined paths along the Saint John River, along with historic buildings and galleries.
- Distance from Ottawa: 1,026 km (~10.5 hours)
Why it’s great
It’s a relaxing mix of urban charm and scenic green spaces. Walking the riverfront trail is a great way to get your bearings and connects parks, coffee shops, and cultural sites worthy of exploring.
Practical tips
Street parking is accessible downtown, but pay attention to time limits during business hours to avoid a ticket.
How to get there
Follow the Trans-Canada Highway east along the St Lawrence and inland through Edmundston, where you can find a good service centre. Continue on Route 2 into Fredericton. A compact car rentalfrom Toyota, BMW, and Nissan is perfect for navigating Fredericton’s layout and securing parking.
Frequently asked questions about the Ottawa to Fredericton road trip
Where is Fredericton?
Located inland on the banks of the Saint John River, Fredericton is New Brunswick’s capital and a major urban centre in the Maritimes. It’s known for its scenic riverfront, vibrant cultural scene, as well as local breweries and food scene.
Travellers typically arrive by car or through Fredericton International Airport, located just 20 minutes southeast of downtown. Booking a car on Turo makes it easy, with flexible Ottawa or Fredericton airport car rental options that let you hit the road straight away!
What airlines fly from Fredericton, NB?
Domestic airlines such as Air Canada and Porter offer direct flights from Ottawa to Fredericton. The total flight time is approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a good option for travellers who want to dedicate more time to exploring Fredericton and less time on the road.
What is halfway between Ottawa and Fredericton?
The best midpoint stop is definitely Quebec City. It’s conveniently situated along Highway 40, and if you have extra time you can stop to appreciate the sights of the Chemin du Roi along the way.
How long does it take to drive from Ontario to New Brunswick?
The estimated driving time from Ottawa to Fredericton is between 9 and 10 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and how often you stop along the way.
Is Fredericton, NB worth visiting?
Absolutely! Fredericton offers a blend of outdoor activities, vibrant culture, and classic Maritime charm. The city is relaxed and walkable, and its location makes sights like Moncton and the Bay of Fundy are just a short drive away.
Book your rental car in Ottawa with Turo
Lock in your Ottawa rental car on Turo and get ready to experience this adventure through Quebec and New Brunswick for yourself. Skip the hassle of traditional rental services and book the perfect car for your plans, complete with flexible pick-up and drop-off options. Get ready to hit the road and make memories!
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.
