- Must visit
National Gallery of Canada
Canada’s national art museum is renowned for Indigenous, Canadian, and international works in a landmark glass building.
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$108
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$112
Fastest journey on Sep 15
1 d
Average journey duration on Sep 15
1 d 1 h 13 m
Buses on Sep 15
3
Distance
733 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON will cost around $112 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $108.
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 3 buses from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct buses cover the 733 km distance in an average of 1 d 1 h 13 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest buses will take 1 d 3 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.






Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $205 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $205, while a flight costs an average of $605.
Distance: 455 miles (733 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$205 Average price Cheapest | $605 Average price | $145 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
20h 30m Average total duration 20h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 8m Average total duration Fastest 4h 8m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON:
A bus is $400 (€325) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON costing on average $605 (€491).
Other travel options to Ottawa, ON take longer:
Bus takes on average 20h 0m.
Tickets start at around $205 (€166) compared to roughly $145 (€118) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-60.11 (€-48.78). The journey takes 20h 0m versus 8h 55m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $155 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $161 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 29h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 23h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 02:20PM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 25h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $148 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 23h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 22h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 11:40PM | Duration 28h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $194 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 24h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 25h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $235 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:40PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 27h40 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 30h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $176 |
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON buses for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:00 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 23h20 | 2:20 PM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:25 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 28h15 | 11:40 PM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 24h35 | 8:05 PM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 24h50 | 8:20 PM Ottawa, Gloucester Centre, ON | 3 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 11:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 30h35 | 6:05 AM Ottawa, Gloucester Centre, ON | 2 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 11:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 29h55 | 5:25 AM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 2 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 11:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 30h20 | 5:50 AM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON run on average 6 times per day, taking around 20h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $110 (€90) but you can travel from only $93 (€76) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 455 miles (733 km) distance in 12h 50m.
Distance 455 miles (733 km) |
Average bus duration 20h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€90) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 12h 50m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 7 days |
Discover the best of Ottawa, ON — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ottawa, ON trip today.
Canada’s national art museum is renowned for Indigenous, Canadian, and international works in a landmark glass building.
This major national museum explores Canada’s human history, cultures, and civilizations across expansive permanent galleries.
This national museum presents military history, artifacts, and immersive galleries from early conflicts to modern service.
Ottawa’s best-known market district mixes heritage streets, shops, culture, and lively public spaces near major landmarks.
This linear waterfront park along the Rideau Canal is ideal for walking, cycling, and iconic city views in every season.
A broad ceremonial boulevard linking downtown to the National Gallery, known for embassies, monuments, and classic capital views.
BeaverTails are hand-stretched fried pastries topped with cinnamon sugar or sweets. They became an Ottawa icon through the original ByWard Market stand.
Shawarma is a city staple in Ottawa, shaped by a large Lebanese community. Expect spit-roasted meat, garlic sauce, pickles, and turnips in wraps or plates.
Poutine is fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. In Ottawa it is a beloved late-night comfort food, often found in chip trucks and casual diners.
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal Canadian ingredients and polished tasting menus. Elegant setting for a high-end Ottawa meal.
Long-running casual spot known for generous Ottawa-style shawarma, garlic potatoes, and wraps. A reliable choice for one of the city’s defining foods.
Famous ByWard Market counter serving the city’s signature fried pastry. Casual, fast, and essential for a classic Ottawa snack stop.
Moderate for Canada. Hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and transit are manageable for most visitors.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants. Taxis usually get 10-15%. For cafes, rounding up or $1-2 is common for counter service.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Ottawa, ON, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Washington, DC to Ottawa, ON buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station to Ottawa, VIA Rail station pair, with some services arriving at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Ottawa, ON bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) is 1 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). ATMs are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Ticket office support is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Sidewalks and crosswalks are wheelchair accessible.
Ottawa, VIA Rail is 3 km from Ottawa city centre. Public transport options include:
Ottawa, VIA Rail has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Ottawa, VIA Rail. ATMs are available at Ottawa, VIA Rail.
Ticket office support is available at Ottawa, VIA Rail.
Available at Ottawa, VIA Rail: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ottawa, VIA Rail: Ramp access available.
Ottawa, Gloucester Centre is 7 km from Ottawa city centre. Public transport options include:
Ottawa, Gloucester Centre has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Various restaurants available within the shopping center.
Wi-Fi is available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre. ATMs are aTM services available in the shopping center.
Ticket office support is available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre.
Available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre: Facility is wheelchair accessible.
Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre) is 11 km from Ottawa city centre. Public transport options include:
Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options inside the shopping centre.
Wireless internet available in the shopping centre. ATMs are aTMs available within the shopping centre.
Ticket office support is available at Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre).
Available at Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre): Shopping centre has wheelchair accessible entrances.
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