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Vancouver, British Columbia to Thunder Bay, Ontario from CA$277: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Vancouver, Canada
to
Thunder Bay, Canada

How to Get from Vancouver to Thunder Bay: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$277 - PlaneBest price
2475 kmDistance
6h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Vancouver to Thunder Bay with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
CA$277-702
Recommended
Company
Self
Drive
Average Duration
33h  56m
Estimated price
CA$609-947
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2475 km
Duration: 6h 40m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
50h  10m
Estimated price
CA$344-770
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
58h  16m
Estimated price
CA$422-1141
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Traveling From Vancouver to Thunder Bay

The journey from Vancouver to Thunder Bay offers a striking contrast, with Vancouver's bustling urban vibe giving way to Thunder Bay's serene natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay's neighborhoods each offer their own charm and attractions.

Port Arthur
• Home to vibrant arts and music scene.
• Offers stunning waterfront views.
Current River
• Features beautiful parks and hiking trails.
• Family-friendly vibe with local shops.
South Core
• Known for its trendy restaurants and cafes.
• Close to Thunder Bay's bustling downtown.

Best Times To Visit Thunder Bay's Attractions

Thunder Bay boasts a range of attractions best enjoyed at specific times.

Kakabeka Falls
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Fort William Historical Park
Weekdays in spring or fall offer a quieter, more immersive experience.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Visit during weekdays in late spring for blooming flowers and fewer hikers.

Thunder Bay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Thunder Bay experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather conditions can greatly influence your activities, so checking forecasts can help enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Thunder Bay

Try the bison burger at The Hoito, a beloved local eatery that serves Finnish comfort food, offering a hearty experience distinctly different from Vancouver's vibrant seafood scene. The rustic atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients provide a cozy dining adventure that showcases Thunder Bay's culinary heritage.

Vancouver - Thunder Bay operators

Explore transport companies operating between Vancouver and Thunder Bay, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
aircanada.com

Plane from Vancouver (YVR) to Thunder Bay (YQT)

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
2774-2775
Website
westjet.com

Plane from Vancouver (YVR) to Thunder Bay (YQT)

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
2774-947
Website
flyflair.com

Plane from Vancouver (YVR) to Thunder Bay (YQT)

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
2776-2777
Bus
Contact phone
1.833.276.5841
Website
bcconnector.ca

Bus from Vancouver, BC - Pacific Central Station to Kamloops, BC

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
7025-7026
Contact phone
1-877-769-3287
Website
myebus.ca

Bus from Vancouver, BC - Pacific Central Station to Kamloops, BC

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
3441-3442
Train
Contact phone
+1 888 842-7245
Website
viarail.ca

Train from Vancouver to Winnipeg

Average Duration
49h
Estimated price
7022-7023

Train from Kamloops North to Portage la Prairie

Average Duration
40h 23m
Estimated price
2778-2776

Vancouver to Thunder Bay: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Vancouver and Thunder Bay offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from vibrant Vancouver to the picturesque city of Thunder Bay! Covering a distance of 2014 miles, get ready for a journey filled with diverse landscapes and breathtaking views. 💸 Budget-conscious travelers can rejoice as the prices to travel by car from Vancouver to Thunder Bay range from C$609 to C$947. Take advantage of the flexibility and freedom that a road trip offers while exploring the beauty of Canada's scenic routes. 🌲 After approximately 33 hours and 56 minutes on the road, arrive in Thunder Bay refreshed and filled with unforgettable memories from this memorable cross-country adventure. Endless possibilities await in Thunder Bay, making this road trip an unforgettable experience for all travelers.
Average price
C$621 - C$966
🛫 Flying from Vancouver to Thunder Bay entails a journey with a duration of approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes. There are no direct flights available, and the quickest option includes one stopover. 🌐 Carriers such as WestJet, Flair Airlines, and Air Canada operate flights from Vancouver Airport to Thunder Bay Airport. Travelers can expect a range of prices between C$277 to C$702 for this route.
Departure Point
Vancouver Airport
Arrival Point
Thunder Bay Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 10m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either WestJet, Flair Airlines, or Air Canada to ensure comfortable options, but pay attention to layover cities such as Calgary or Toronto, as these can impact your total travel time significantly.
• Upon arrival at Thunder Bay Airport, be prepared for a compact terminal layout; after exiting customs, follow the clearly marked signs to baggage claim and car rental services, which are just a short walk away.
• Expect taxi fares from Thunder Bay Airport to the city center to be around C$30 to C$40; consider booking a taxi in advance to avoid waiting times, especially in the evenings.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Vancouver to Thunder Bay.

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The distance between Vancouver and Thunder Bay is approximately 1538 miles. The travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes around 10 hours and 54 minutes to reach Thunder Bay from Vancouver by taking a bus to Abbotsford and then a flight. Alternatively, it takes approximately 6 hours and 36 minutes to fly directly from Vancouver to Thunder Bay. If traveling by car, it would take around 33 hours and 56 minutes to drive from Thunder Bay to Vancouver.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Vancouver to Thunder Bay is by flying. It takes approximately 6 hours and 36 minutes to reach Thunder Bay from Vancouver by plane. Although it may have a higher cost compared to other modes of transport, it is the quickest way to make the journey. Alternatively, taking a bus and train combination is a more affordable option, but it does require a longer travel time of around 2 days and 10 hours.
To get from Vancouver to Thunder Bay without using public transportation, the most straightforward option is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 2014 miles, and it takes approximately 33 hours and 56 minutes to drive from Vancouver to Thunder Bay. The cost of driving can vary, but the prices range from around C$594 to C$923, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Vancouver to Thunder Bay without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train. The journey takes approximately 2 days and 10 hours and costs between C$330 and C$607. First, you will need to take a bus from Vancouver to Winnipeg, which takes around 27 hours. From Winnipeg, you can then take a train to Thunder Bay, which takes around 15 hours. It is recommended to book tickets in advance and check the schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The flight duration between Vancouver and Thunder Bay can vary depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one layover typically takes around 5 hours and 6 minutes. However, there is no direct flight available. The cost of a flight between Thunder Bay and Vancouver can range from C$244 to C$751, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Thunder Bay. With over 29 hotels available, travelers are sure to find one that suits their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at C$71 per night, providing affordable options for all types of travelers. From budget-friendly options to luxury hotels, there is something for everyone in Thunder Bay.

Trips from Vancouver