Travel to Nanaimo by Land

Driving to Nanaimo

Nanaimo is the easiest community on Vancouver Island to get to by car. Three major highways enter the city for travellers coming from both north and south on the island, and there are hundreds of vehicle spaces available on BC Ferries for travel between Nanaimo and Vancouver, as well as nearby islands.

Highway 1, which begins in Victoria, passes through downtown Nanaimo and heads to the Departure Bay ferry terminal, where travellers can drive onto a Vancouver-bound ferry. Highway 19A begins in central Nanaimo, and links the city with northern Vancouver Island, while Highway 19 passes west of Nanaimo and exits into the city at five points.

Nanaimo makes an ideal base for travelling around Vancouver Island, as driving times to other cities are quite reasonable. To get to Victoria for instance, it only takes an hour and forty five minutes. Tofino takes just under three hours, and the beautiful towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach can be driven to in just over a half hour. For driving distances between Nanaimo and other points on the island, be sure to check out our distance chart to start planning your trip.

Nanaimo Train Service

If you want to travel around Vancouver Island in style, why not take the train? VIA Rail Canada offers train service that runs daily between Victoria and Courtenay. This route is known as The Malahat, and offers breathtaking views, comfortable surroundings, and affordable convenience as you make your way to Nanaimo. The E&N Railway conveniently stops in the city's charming Old City Quarter, which is only steps away from the main Nanaimo bus exchange, local shops, restaurants, and the scenic harbourfront walkway.

For information on travel times, ticket prices and reservations, call VIA Rail Canada at 1-888-842-7245.

Coach Lines and Bus Companies

The Nanaimo Bus Terminal is located at 1 Terminal Ave. North, within walking distance of the waterfront and the downtown core. Greyhound offers service to Nanaimo from all major points on Vancouver Island, as well as the mainland. Trips operate daily, and major routes run every two to three hours.

In addition to Greyhound, there are also smaller bus companies that specialize in taking travellers to the West Coast Trail, Tofino, and downtown Vancouver. For more information about coach lines and bus charters, be sure to call us toll free at 1-800-663-7337, or fill out our online contact form.