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How to Get to London

How to Get to London

London Ontario, Canada Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving London

London, Ontario, has two main airport options for travelers, offering both local convenience and global connections.

Airport Details

  • London International Airport (YXU): Main airport directly serving London, offers regional and some seasonal international flights.
  • Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): Canada's largest and busiest, approx. 180 kilometers from London, main entry for international visitors.
  • YXU Routes: Mainly domestic within Canada (Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver), seasonal sun destinations.

Direct Flight Options & Airlines

YYZ has direct flights from numerous major global hubs, making it the most common entry point for international visitors to Ontario.

Flight Information

  • YXU Airlines: Air Canada, WestJet, Flair Airlines, and Swoop (seasonal).
  • YYZ Airlines: Vast array of major international and domestic carriers globally.
  • Direct Flights YXU: Limited international, generally only seasonal sun destinations.

Seasonal Availability

Summer: Higher prices and increased frequency. Winter: Some routes lower, sun destination flights increase.

Price Fluctuations

Shoulder seasons (Spring/Autumn) often present a better return for flights, with fewer crowds.

Airport Facilities

YXU: Parking, car rental, taxi, limited dining. YYZ: Extensive shops, restaurants, lounges, on-site hotels.

Transfer Options to London

From London International Airport YXU

  • Taxi/Ride-share: Readily available, approx. CAD $25-40 (20-30 min).
  • Public Transit: LTC Route 36 to the city center core.
  • Car Rental: Agencies at the airport for continuing your journey.
  • Approximate travel time into the city's core: 20-30 minutes.

From Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ

  • Bus: Robert Q Airbus, Megabus offer direct express shuttle services. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
  • Car Rental: Agencies at YYZ for driving to London.
  • Train (VIA Rail): UP Express to Union Station, then VIA Rail to London.
  • Approximate travel time to London: 2 hours.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings US

Closest major crossings: Windsor/Detroit, Sarnia/Port Huron, Niagara Falls/Buffalo. Valid passport or approved travel documents are necessary.

Train Connections

VIA Rail Canada: London is a primary stop on the Quebec City-Windsor Corridor, frequent assistance to Toronto and other cities.

Bus Services

Megabus and Rider Express offer intercity bus services connecting London to Toronto (including YYZ), Windsor, and other Ontario cities.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving Requirements

London's location in Southwestern Ontario makes it easily accessible overland, especially from the United States and other parts of Canada.

License & Documentation

  • Valid driver''s driving license from your country of origin.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if license is not in English or French.
  • Be prepared for questioning by CBSA officers regarding purpose of visit.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Major highways connecting London to other cities, like Highway 401, are generally well-maintained. Winter conditions for operating a vehicle (snow, ice) can be challenging.

Road Rules

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Cell phone use while driving is illegal unless using a hands-free device.

Road Safety & Wildlife

Road conditions are generally good. Be aware of deer, particularly at sunrise and sunset on rural roads.

Awareness & Caution

  • Rural roads can be less maintained than highways.
  • Deer pose a collision risk on rural roads.
  • Winter driving calls for caution: snow, ice, reduced visibility.

Sea/River Arrivals

London, Ontario, is an inland city. Sea or river arrivals for intercity travel are not applicable.

Waterways in London

  • The Thames River flows through the city.
  • Mainly serves for recreational paddling and angling.
  • No commercial water transportation or boat taxis for public transit.

Important Driving Advice

  • Snow tires are highly recommended for winter driving conditions.
  • Watch for black ice during colder months.
  • Be aware of reduced visibility during snow squalls.
  • Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h).
  • Be a defensive driver, especially in challenging conditions.
  • Follow all traffic signs and signals.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees are charged upon leaving Canada by air, land, or sea. Airline tickets typically include various taxes and fees.

Departure Timing

  • YXU (London International Airport): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic, 2-2.5 hours prior to international/seasonal flights.
  • YYZ (Toronto Pearson International Airport): Be THERE two-3 hours before domestic, 3-4 hours before international flights (peak times).
  • VIA Rail/Bus Stations: Arrive 30-ONE hour prior to departure.

Airport/Station Facilities

These facilities cater to departing travelers, offering comfort and services before your journey.

Amenities Available

  • YXU: Check-in, security, limited retail, food services, boarding gates.
  • YYZ: Extensive retail, dining, lounges, duty-free shops, currency exchange for international departures.
  • Train/Bus Stations: Waiting areas, restrooms, usually some food or drink vendors.

Confirm Schedule

Verify flight, train, or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure.

Allow Time

Factor in extra time for safety and check-in, especially at major airports.

Stay Informed

Verify if there are any travel alerts or weather advisories that might impact your journey.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Documents & Confirmations

Ensure all necessary documents are easy to reach and up-to-date for a smooth departure.

Checklist Items

  • Passport and visa/eTA valid for departure.
  • Boarding passes or tickets confirmed.
  • Details of your travel insurance handy.

Luggage & Valuables

Properly secure your belongings and be prepared for airport or station procedures.

Preparation Steps

  • Luggage weight within airline limits.
  • Valuables secured and in your hand luggage-on.
  • Liquids in carry-on adhere to regulations.

Customs & Security Prep

Declaration Ready

Declare any goods purchased abroad.

Electronic Devices

Prepare laptops and tablets for security screening.

Comfort Items

Have neck pillow, earplugs accessible for travel.

Departure Reminder

Confirm your flight, train, or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure. This helps you stay informed of any changes or delays.