The Cost of a Trip Between Burlington, Ontario and Toronto, Ontario

If you're planning a trip between Burlington and Toronto, it's important to consider the cost of getting there. This article will break down the different routes you can take and the associated costs so that you can make an informed decision.

Possible Routes

QEW Route

The QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way) is the most common route between Burlington and Toronto. It's a direct route that takes you straight to the city. The distance between Burlington and Toronto on the QEW is approximately 56 km or 35 miles.

GO Transit Route

Another option is to take GO Transit from Burlington to Toronto. GO Transit is a commuter rail system that operates in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The distance between Burlington and Toronto on GO Transit depends on the route you take, but it generally takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Union Station in downtown Toronto.

Highway 407 ETR Route

Highway 407 ETR is a toll highway that runs parallel to the QEW and provides an alternative route between Burlington and Toronto. The distance between Burlington and Toronto on Highway 407 ETR is approximately 51 km or 32 miles.

Combination Route

You can also take a combination of the above routes. For example, you could drive to a GO Transit station and take the train to Toronto or drive to the 407 ETR and take the toll highway for part of the trip.

Costs

QEW Route

The cost of driving the QEW route between Burlington and Toronto depends on a few factors, including gas prices, your car's fuel efficiency, and any tolls you may encounter. Currently, gas prices in Ontario are around $1.30 per liter. Assuming your car gets an average of 8 liters per 100 km, the cost of gas for a one-way trip on the QEW between Burlington and Toronto is approximately $7.36. There are no tolls on the QEW.

GO Transit Route

The cost of taking GO Transit from Burlington to Toronto also depends on a few factors, including the time of day and whether or not you have a Presto card. A one-way trip from Burlington to Union Station in downtown Toronto costs $12.35 with a Presto card or $13.70 without a Presto card. If you're traveling during peak hours, the cost may be slightly higher.

Highway 407 ETR Route

The cost of driving on Highway 407 ETR between Burlington and Toronto depends on the distance you travel and the time of day. The tolls are higher during peak hours and lower during off-peak hours. As of June 2021, the toll for driving the entire length of Highway 407 ETR between Burlington and Toronto is approximately $16.20 during off-peak hours and $30.50 during peak hours.

Combination Route

The cost of taking a combination of routes depends on which routes you take and how far you travel on each one. For example, if you drive to a GO Transit station in Burlington and park your car there, you'll have to pay for parking. Parking fees at GO Transit stations vary, but they are usually around $5 per day. If you take the train from Burlington to Toronto, the cost will depend on whether you have a Presto card and the time of day.

Which Route is Recommended?

The QEW is the most direct route between Burlington and Toronto, and it has no tolls. If you're driving, factor in any parking fees if you're visiting downtown Toronto. If you're traveling during peak hours, you may encounter some traffic, but it's generally a smooth and straightforward drive. If you're taking GO Transit, be sure to check the schedule and factor in some extra time for any potential delays. If you're taking Highway 407 ETR, be prepared to pay tolls.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best route for your trip between Burlington and Toronto depends on your specific needs and budget. Take into account factors like cost, distance, time, and convenience before making your decision. If you're driving, the QEW is likely your best bet. If you're taking public transportation, GO Transit may be the most convenient option. Regardless of which route you take, the trip between Burlington and Toronto is a relatively short and easy one. Plan accordingly and enjoy your travels!