Destination Montreal

Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YVR) is situated to the south-west of the city. It is a hub for Star Alliance member Air Canada and is served by Oneworld and Star Alliance airlines connecting to Europe and the USA.

Airport Code – YUL

Distance to Central Montreal – 12 Miles

Montreal Population – 4,400,000

Language – French and English

Currency – Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Voltage – 120v

Plug – Type A and Type B

Credit Cards – Widely Accepted

LGBTQ Friendly – Yes

Montreal Airport to City Transport Options

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Bus

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Car & Pick Up

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Taxi

The white and blue 747 Express Bus runs 24 hours a day connecting the airport (Door 28) to the main downtown bus station with connections to the Metro at Lionel-Groulx and Berri-UQÀM stations. Journey time is 45-65 minutes.

The fare is CAD11.25 (as of 12th September 2025) which acts as a 24 hour pass to all STM buses and metros within Zone A.

Tickets can be bought from machines or at the STM information counter by Door 28 in International Arrivals by cash or contactless or by cash (exact fare, no notes) on board the bus.

Cheaper, less direct bus services to the city centre are also available.

Official Montreal taxis are available outside the arrivals area.

Taxis are metered but a flat rate is applicable from the Airport to downtown or anywhere in Zone A with fares set at CAD49.45 in the daytime and CAD56.70 (correct as of 12th September 2025) between 2300-0500.

The usual ride hailing apps are in operation.

Welcome To Montreal

Montreal is a city where European charm and North American energy meet, offering visitors a blend of old-world architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods, and a celebrated food scene.

Begin your visit in Old Montréal, where cobblestone streets lead past 17th-century stone buildings, cafés with wrought-iron balconies, and the magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica. The Old Port along the St. Lawrence River is perfect for a stroll, a boat cruise, or a ride on the observation wheel that provides sweeping views of the city and Mount Royal.

Downtown lies just a short walk from the historic quarter and is anchored by the bustling shopping artery of Sainte-Catherine Street. Here sleek skyscrapers house galleries, theatres, and an extensive underground network known as the RÉSO, which connects shops and metro stations for comfortable exploration during Montréal’s snowy winters.

Art lovers will want to visit the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts and the Contemporary Art Museum, while those interested in music and nightlife can discover a thriving scene that ranges from intimate jazz clubs to large summer festivals like the renowned International Jazz Festival.

For a quieter escape, head up Mount Royal, the tree-covered hill that gave the city its name. Walking or cycling to the summit rewards you with a panoramic view of the skyline and river. Neighbourhoods radiating from the mountain showcase the city’s diversity: the Plateau is famed for colourful row houses with spiral staircases and an ever-growing collection of street art; Mile End brims with indie boutiques, cafés, and bakeries that serve the city’s legendary bagels; Little Italy hosts the fragrant Jean-Talon Market, a paradise for fresh produce and local specialties.

Food is central to Montréal’s identity, and sampling it is as essential as sightseeing. Classic treats such as smoked-meat sandwiches and poutine share the table with French-inspired bistros, cutting-edge restaurants, and a vibrant mix of international cuisines reflecting the city’s multicultural makeup. Pair meals with a local craft beer or explore the city’s thriving coffee culture.

Popular day trips from Montreal include the pretty ski resort of Mont-Tremblent in the Laurentian Mountains, historic Quebec City, wine and cheese in the Eastern Townships or Ottawa, Canada’s capital.

Getting Around Montreal

Montreal’s public transport system, operated primarily by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), is a comprehensive and efficient way to get around the city. It includes a metro (subway) system, an extensive bus network, a light metro system called the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) and commuter trains.

The rubber-tyred Montreal Metro is a fast, clean, and safe subway system that is a cornerstone of the public transport network. It has four main lines (Orange, Green, Blue, and Yellow) that connect the city center. The metro operates from 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. on weekdays and until 1:30 a.m. on weekends.

Montreal’s bus system has over 200 routes, and operates 24/7, providing a great option for travel after the metro closes. Wait times vary from 5 to 30 minutes.

The public transit system is divided into four fare zones (A, B, C, and D), with Zone A covering the agglomeration of Montreal.

The Opus card rechargeable smart card costs CAD6 and can be loaded with various fares. You can buy it at metro stations, some retailers, or through the Chrono app. It is required for weekly or monthly passes.

A single trip fare includes one transfer to a bus, but not re-entry to the metro. Evening, 24 hour, 3 Day, Weekend and Weekly passes are available.

The new REM automated light metro currently operates east from the Gare Central but is expanding and will eventually serve the airport.

Montreal’s white and orange cabs can be hailed on the street or taxi ranks. Fares are metered and cash and cards are accepted. Tipping 10-15% is normal.