How to Get to Toronto From Chicago [2026 Guide]
Travel from Chicago to Toronto in 1 hr 30 min nonstop flight ($180–$350 roundtrip), 8–9 hrs by car (~520 miles, $60–$90 gas/tolls), or 10–12 hrs by train/bus ($60–$150). This 2026 guide covers the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient ways to reach Toronto.
The fastest way to get from Chicago to Toronto is a nonstop flight (1 hr 30 min, $180–$350). Driving takes 8–9 hrs (~520 miles), while train and bus options take 10–12 hrs at lower costs.
Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a hub for finance, culture, and entertainment. Famous for the CN Tower, waterfront, multicultural neighborhoods, and sports teams, it’s just a short trip from Chicago, making it a top choice for quick getaways.
- Distance from Chicago: ~520 miles (837 km)
- Closest Airport: Toronto Pearson International (YYZ)
- Alternative Airport: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
- Border Crossing: Passport required for all travelers
✈️ Flying from Chicago to Toronto (Best Option)
Flying from Chicago (ORD or MDW) to Toronto (YYZ or YTZ) is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities, with flight durations averaging around 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
For travelers seeking the quickest route, nonstop flights from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) are operated by major carriers like Air Canada, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Porter Airlines, with roundtrip ticket costs typically ranging from $180 to $350.
Alternatively, flying out of Chicago Midway (MDW) into Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) via Porter Airlines offers an exceptional alternative for downtown-bound travelers. Located directly on Toronto Island, Billy Bishop Airport provides much closer and faster access to downtown Toronto compared to Pearson, with roundtrip fares generally running between $200 and $350.
Taking a flight provides multiple daily departures, unmatched speed, and seamless access to downtown Toronto depending on your preferred arrival airport.
🚗 Driving from Chicago to Toronto
Driving is a popular option for road trippers who want flexibility.
- Distance: ~520 miles (837 km)
- Duration: 8–9 hrs without major stops
- Main Route: I-94 E → Detroit–Windsor Tunnel or Ambassador Bridge → ON-401 E to Toronto
Estimated Costs:
- Gas: $55–$75
- Tolls: $10–$15
- Total: $60–$90 one way
Advantages:
- Control over schedule
- Option to stop in Detroit or Windsor
- Cheapest option for groups
Disadvantages:
- Long drive with potential border delays
- Parking costs in Toronto can be high
🚆 Train from Chicago to Toronto
Traveling by train from Chicago to Toronto via the Amtrak Maple Leaf route—operated in partnership with VIA Rail—offers a scenic and comfortable journey, though it requires a significant time investment. The trip runs daily from Chicago Union Station to Toronto, passing through Buffalo, with a total travel duration ranging from 10 to 12 hours. One-way tickets typically cost between $90 and $150.
While the train is considerably longer than flying and features fewer daily departures, key advantages include spacious seating, scenic window views, and the convenience of handling the international border crossing directly on board during the trip.
🚌 Bus from Chicago to Toronto
Buses are the cheapest but slowest option.
- Operators: Greyhound, Megabus, FlixBus
- Duration: 11–12 hrs
- Cost: $60–$120 one way
Advantages:
- Most budget-friendly option
- Overnight buses available
Disadvantages:
- Long travel time
- Less comfortable than train or plane
Related Routes from Chicago:
How to Get to Navy Pier By Train From Chicago
Best Way to Travel
- Fastest & Most Convenient: Flight (1 hr 30 min, $180–$350)
- Cheapest: Bus ($60–$120, 11–12 hrs)
- Balanced Option: Driving (8–9 hrs, $60–$90 one way, flexible for groups)
Chicago to Toronto Travel Cost Summary
| Mode | Duration | Cost (USD) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight (YYZ) | 1 hr 30 min | $180–$350 | Fast & easy | Multiple daily flights, ORD → YYZ |
| ✈️ Flight (YTZ) | 1 hr 40 min | $200–$350 | Downtown access | Porter Airlines to Billy Bishop Airport |
| 🚗 Driving | 8–9 hrs | $60–$90 | Road trippers, groups | Via Detroit/Windsor crossing |
| 🚆 Train | 10–12 hrs | $90–$150 | Scenic travel | Amtrak + VIA Rail “Maple Leaf” |
| 🚌 Bus | 11–12 hrs | $60–$120 | Budget travelers | Greyhound, Megabus, FlixBus |
FAQs About How to Get to Toronto From Chicago
Q1: What is the fastest way to get from Chicago to Toronto?
A nonstop flight from O’Hare or Midway to Toronto (~1 hr 30 min).
Q2: How much are flights from Chicago to Toronto?
Roundtrip flights cost $180–$350, depending on season and airline.
Q3: How far is Chicago from Toronto by car?
About 520 miles (8–9 hrs) via Detroit–Windsor.
Q4: Do you need a passport to travel from Chicago to Toronto?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a passport (or passport card for land/rail travel).
Q5: Is the train from Chicago to Toronto worth it?
Yes, if you prefer comfort and scenic views, though it’s slower than flying.