How to get to Havre

When planning a journey to Havre, you are heading into the very heart of the northern plains of Montana, where the history of the Wild West meets modern hospitality. This colourful city in the USA, located near the Canadian border, serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the region. You can get here in various ways: by flying into neighbouring major airports, taking the legendary railway, or embarking on a road trip along scenic highways.

Although Havre has a small local airport for regional aviation, most travellers prefer flying to larger transport hubs. The nearest convenient option is the airport in Great Falls (GTF), located 167 km from your destination, which receives regular flights from major airlines.

An alternative route lies through Canada: you can fly into the city of Medicine Hat (YXH), which is 180 km away. Both airports have convenient connections to the road network, allowing you to quickly reach Havre by rental car or transfer.

Unlike many other small towns in the region, Havre is a significant stop on the route of the famous Empire Builder train by Amtrak. This railway line connects Chicago with the Pacific Northwest, allowing tourists to arrive here in comfort and enjoy views of the American vastness from the carriage window.

The railway station is located in the historic city centre, making arrival by train extremely convenient. It is an ideal choice for romantics and those who wish to avoid tiring driving, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of a classic journey across the USA.

Bus services are a reliable and economical way to reach the city, especially if you are travelling without a personal vehicle. Regular services connect Havre with the city of Great Falls: a comfortable bus covers the distance of 184 km in approximately 2.5 hours.

Such a trip allows you to relax and admire the steppe landscapes of Montana without being distracted by navigation. It is recommended to purchase tickets for intercity buses in advance to guarantee seats at a time convenient for you.

Travelling by car is the most flexible way to get to Havre, giving you freedom in choosing stops and the pace of movement. The scenic route from the city of Great Falls, spanning about 182 km, will take you approximately 1.8 hours on the state's quality roads.

For those driving from the Canadian side, the journey from Medicine Hat will be 215 km and take about 2.3 hours, including the border crossing. Given the vast distances in Montana, a car remains the preferred means of transport for exploring the region.

Preparing for a trip to Montana requires considering the local climate and long distances. To ensure your visit goes smoothly, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The weather here is changeable even in summer. It is recommended to dress in layers: bring a windbreaker and a warm sweater, as evenings can be cool.
2. Transport. Public transport within the city is limited. For comfortable movement and sightseeing in the surrounding areas, car rental is highly recommended.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but a small supply of cash is useful for tips and minor purchases.
4. Health and Safety. In emergencies, dial 911. Healthcare in the USA is expensive, so be sure to arrange comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.
5. Communication. The main language is English. Locals are known for their friendliness, so basic knowledge of the language will be sufficient for communication.
6. Local Etiquette. Tipping is an important part of the culture. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount.
7. What to Avoid. Do not let your fuel level drop below a quarter of a tank when driving out of town — petrol stations may be infrequent.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to visit the "Havre Beneath the Streets" tour to learn the unique history of the underground city.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and focus on the impressions of your journey.