How to get to London

London is a cosy and dynamically developing city in the province of Ontario, often referred to as the "Forest City" of Canada. If you are planning a journey to this region, it will be useful to know how to reach London with maximum comfort. It is easily accessible by various means: by direct flight, train, intercity bus, or private car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to arrive in the city is to fly into London International Airport (YXU). It receives regular flights from major Canadian transit hubs (such as Toronto, Montreal, or Calgary), and also services seasonal international destinations. Thanks to the convenient location of the air gateway, the journey to the city centre by taxi or rental car will take very little time.

Alternatively, you can consider flying via Toronto. Pearson International Airport—the country's main aviation hub—is located approximately two hours away by road (about 170 km). Many travellers choose this route due to the wide geography of flights, and you can get from there to London via a direct bus transfer (for example, Robert Q) or a rental car.

Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to get to London. The city is served by the national rail carrier, VIA Rail, and is an important stop on the popular route between Windsor and Toronto. Trains run regularly, allowing tourists to plan their schedule with flexibility.

The train station is located directly in the city centre (Downtown), which is a huge advantage for travellers. Upon arrival, you will find yourself within walking distance of many hotels, dining venues, and business districts, avoiding the need to seek complex transfers from the outskirts.

A railway journey through Canada allows you to enjoy beautiful views of the Ontario province, relax in a comfortable seat, and utilise onboard services, including Wi-Fi. It is an excellent alternative to a car, especially during the winter season or for those who wish to take a break from driving.

Bus service is one of the most economical and convenient ways to reach the city. Regular trips are operated by major international and regional carriers, such as Megabus, FlixBus, and Onex Bus. The modern buses of these companies are typically equipped with comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets, allowing travellers to stay connected while on the move.

The route from downtown Toronto is the most popular. The journey usually takes between 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic. This is a great alternative to a private car, allowing you to avoid the stress of driving on the busy Highway 401. Buses often make stops both in the city centre and in the university area, which is convenient for various categories of passengers.

For those planning a trip from the west or from the US border side, convenient trips from Windsor and Detroit are available. The journey from Windsor takes about two hours. This direction ensures a stable connection with border regions, making the city easily accessible for international tourists.

Travelling by car is an excellent way to get to the city while enjoying the scenic landscapes of Southern Ontario. The fastest route runs from the Canadian city of Sarnia: covering 110 km on Highway 402 takes just over an hour. Guests coming from Mount Clemens in the US will have to drive about 160 km via the Blue Water Bridge border crossing, which usually takes around two hours, including customs formalities.

A longer journey awaits travellers from Erie. The distance of about 320 km through Buffalo and the Niagara region is usually covered in 3.5 hours if traffic conditions are favourable. Although it is theoretically possible to book a taxi or transfer, the cost of such a trip often exceeds 250–300 dollars, so most tourists prefer to rent a car for greater freedom of movement and economy.

To ensure your trip to London leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth taking care of organizational details in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you feel confident and comfortable in this hospitable city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is distinctly seasonal. In winter, a warm down jacket, a hat, and non-slip footwear are mandatory, as there is often significant snowfall. Summer can be hot and humid, so light clothing made from natural fabrics is suitable, but be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings by the river.
2. Transport: Although the London Transit bus network operates in the city, the schedule is not always convenient for short tourist visits. The optimal option for getting around is renting a car, which gives you the freedom to visit the surrounding areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash. Remember that taxes are often not included in the price tag of goods, and in restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount.
4. Health and Safety: This is a calm and safe city, but standard precautions are never amiss. Medical care for non-residents is paid and can be expensive, so be sure to arrange medical insurance before travelling to Canada. The single emergency number is 911.
5. Communication: The primary language of communication in the region is English. Despite the country's bilingual status, French is heard here much less frequently than in Ottawa or Quebec. Locals speak quite clearly and are friendly towards tourists, so a basic knowledge of English will be quite sufficient.
6. Local Etiquette: Canadian politeness is not a stereotype, but a way of life. It is customary here to greet shop assistants and bus drivers, hold doors open, and apologise even for the slightest inconvenience. Respecting queues (for example, at bus stops) is considered a strict rule of good manners.
7. What to Avoid: Do not violate regulations regarding smoking and alcohol consumption in public spaces—serious fines are prescribed for this. Also, avoid crossing the road in unauthorised places; even if there are no cars, police may issue a fine for jaywalking.
8. Additional Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to justify the city's nickname—the "Forest City." Be sure to set aside time for a walk in Victoria Park or along the Thames River (yes, it bears the same name as the British one), where festivals and city celebrations often take place.

Following these simple tips will allow you to avoid logistical difficulties and focus on the main thing—exploring the sights and relaxing. We wish you an easy and fulfilling trip!