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Waterloo, Ontario to Thunder Bay, Ontario from $141: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Waterloo, Canada
to
Thunder Bay, Canada

How to Get from Waterloo 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.

$141 by busBest price
1005 kmDistance
4h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Waterloo 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
4h  6m
Estimated price
$122-705
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
22h  55m
Estimated price
$141-315
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1005 km
Duration: 4h 6m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  31m
Estimated price
$178-492
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
22h  20m
Estimated price
$206-424
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  56m
Estimated price
$215-311
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  8m
Estimated price
$289-862
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Traveling From Waterloo to Thunder Bay

The journey from Waterloo to Thunder Bay offers a remarkable shift from the vibrant urban life and cultural scene of Waterloo to the serene natural beauty and outdoor adventures that define Thunder Bay.

Best Neighbourhoods in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for travelers.

Port Arthur
• Historic buildings and charming shops line the streets.
• Waterfront access for stunning views and activities.
Current River
• Green spaces perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Close to dining options and local markets.
Downtown Thunder Bay
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Central business district with lively nightlife options.

Best Times To Visit Thunder Bay's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Thunder Bay's attractions.

Fort William Historical Park
Visit on weekdays in late spring for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Early mornings in summer offer peaceful hikes and breathtaking views.
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Aim for Thursday evenings; enjoy a quieter setting during special events.

Thunder Bay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Thunder Bay experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making late spring and early fall the ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Be prepared for varied weather conditions, as rain and snow can influence outdoor plans and travel experiences throughout the year.

Dining in Thunder Bay: A Culinary Adventure

For a truly unique dining experience, try the pickerel at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, where local ingredients meet a warm and rustic atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the urban flair of Waterloo's eateries. The flavors here reflect the region's bountiful lakes, providing a taste of Northern Ontario that you won’t find in the vibrant café scene of Waterloo.

Waterloo - Thunder Bay operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Kitchener to Toronto Pearson Airport

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
CA$6.5-43

Bus from Toronto Pearson Airport to Sudbury

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
CA$21-81

Bus from White River, ON to Thunder Bay, ON

Average Duration
5h 19m
Estimated price
CA$119-174
Contact phone
+1 705 472 4500
Website
https://www.ontarionorthland.ca/en

Bus from King City Go Station to Sudbury

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
CA$43-65

Bus from Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie

Average Duration
4h 19m
Estimated price
CA$38-59

Bus from Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay

Average Duration
9h 46m
Estimated price
CA$81-130
Train
Contact phone
+1 888 842-7245
Website
http://www.viarail.ca/

Train from Kitchener GO to Toronto Union Station

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
CA$16-87

Train from Sudbury to White River

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
CA$43-103
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.aircanada.com

Plane from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
CA$174-815

Plane from London International Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport

Average Duration
6h 6m
Estimated price
CA$228-870
Website
https://flyflair.com/

Plane from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
CA$59-467

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Waterloo and Thunder Bay is approximately 872.3 km. By car, the typical travel time is around 16 hours and 56 minutes. If traveling by train to Toronto and then flying, the journey takes about 4 hours and 35 minutes. Taking a bus between the two cities usually takes around 24 hours and 4 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Waterloo to Thunder Bay is by taking a bus, which takes approximately 24 hours and costs around C$187-C$414. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option would be to take a train to Toronto and then fly to Thunder Bay, which takes around 4 hours and 35 minutes and costs approximately C$174-C$934.
The prices for traveling from Waterloo to Thunder Bay by bus range from C$191 to C$411.
To travel from Waterloo to Thunder Bay without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1480.6 km, and it takes around 16 hours and 56 minutes to drive from Waterloo to Thunder Bay. Depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of driving can vary, ranging from C$267 to C$414.
To travel from Waterloo to Thunder Bay without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 55 minutes and the cost can range from C$227 to C$614. Firstly, you will need to take a train from Waterloo to Toronto, which will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes. From there, you can board a bus to Thunder Bay, which generally takes around 21 hours and 25 minutes.
No, there is no direct link between Waterloo and Thunder Bay. However, there are bus services available with transfers that take approximately 24 hours and 4 minutes. The journey includes transfers at Bramalea GO Bus, VAUGHAN - HWY 407 terminal, Sudbury, and Sault Ste Marie. The bus services are operated by GO Transit and Ontario Northland.
The flight duration between Waterloo and Thunder Bay is typically around 1 hour and 44 minutes when flying directly from Toronto Airport to Thunder Bay Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. On average, a round-trip ticket for this route can range from around $200 to $400, but it is always recommended to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Thunder Bay. With over 29 hotels to choose from, you can easily find a place that suits your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Thunder Bay start at C$72, making it a relatively affordable destination for travelers.