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Last Update: June 9, 2026

Montreal is one of the most transit-friendly cities in North America: a compact island city with a fast Metro, a growing REM light metro network, regional exo trains, a 24-hour airport bus, intercity rail to Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec City and New York, and a central bus station beside one of Canada’s busiest subway interchanges.

But Montreal also has details that can confuse first-time visitors. The airport does not yet have a direct train in 2026. The REM airport station is still under construction and scheduled for commissioning in 2027. The STM 747 airport bus uses a special $11.25 fare. Public transport fares are organized by ARTM zones A, B, C and D. Some transit passes work on the airport bus, others do not. The city’s main train station is Gare Centrale, but some commuter trains use Lucien-L’Allier. And if you are arriving by cruise ship, the Grand Quay is in the Old Port, not beside the airport or bus terminal.

This guide brings Montreal’s transport system together in one practical place: airport connections, Metro, buses, REM, exo trains, VIA Rail, Amtrak, Gare d’autocars, taxis, ride-share, car rentals, BIXI bikes, river shuttles, cruise terminal access, fares, contacts, FAQ and travel tips.

All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). Fares, routes and schedules can change, especially around July 1 fare updates, construction, winter storms and major events, so always confirm with the official operator before travelling.

Table of Contents

  • Quick Answer: Best Transport Choices
  • Airport Connections
  • OPUS, ARTM Zones & Transit Fares
  • Metro, Bus, REM & exo
  • Rail & Train Stations
  • Central Bus Terminal
  • Cruise, River Shuttle & Port Hubs
  • Taxi & Ride Options
  • Rentals & Shared Mobility
  • FAQ
  • Tips for Smooth Travel in Montreal
  • Useful Contacts
  • Travel Planning Tools

Quick Answer: Best Transport Choices in Montreal

If you are arriving at YUL Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and staying downtown, the best budget option is the STM 747 airport bus. It runs between YUL, Lionel-Groulx station and downtown/Berri-UQAM, generally every 10 to 20 minutes, all day, in both directions. The fare is $11.25 and gives you a 24-hour pass for bus, Metro, exo trains and REM in Zone A.

If you want door-to-door convenience from YUL to downtown, take an official taxi from the airport dispatcher. The fixed fare between YUL and downtown Montreal is $49.45 from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm and $56.70 from 11:00 pm to 5:00 am.

If you are moving around central Montreal, the Metro is usually the fastest and easiest option. The four lines are Green, Orange, Yellow and Blue.

If you are heading to the South Shore, use the REM from Gare Centrale toward Brossard. As of June 2026, the REM connects Brossard, Deux-Montagnes and Anse-a-l’Orme through the central network, while the YUL airport branch remains under construction for a planned 2027 opening.

If you are taking intercity trains, use Gare Centrale / Montreal Central Station at 895 de la Gauchetiere West. It serves VIA Rail, Amtrak, some exo services and the REM.

If you are taking intercity coaches, use Gare d’autocars de Montreal near Berri-UQAM. It is the main coach terminal for regional, national and cross-border bus routes.

If you are visiting in warmer months, BIXI and river shuttles can turn transportation into part of the Montreal experience.

Airport Connections

YUL Montreal-Trudeau International Airport

Official name: YUL Aeroport international Montreal-Trudeau / Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport

Official website: admtl.com

Official address: 975 boulevard Romeo-Vachon Nord, Dorval, QC H4Y 1H1, Canada

General information:

YUL is Montreal’s main passenger airport. It is located in Dorval, west of downtown Montreal, and is the airport most visitors will use for domestic, U.S. and international flights.

Important 2026 reality: there is no direct airport train to YUL yet. The REM station at Montreal-Trudeau is under construction; the REM official airport page says airport station construction continues through 2026, followed by systems integration and testing for commissioning on this segment in 2027.

For now, visitors should plan around:

  • STM 747 airport bus.
  • Official taxi.
  • Uber / ride-share.
  • Car rental.
  • Hotel or private transfer.
  • Local STM buses for specific neighbourhoods.

STM 747 Airport Bus

Official route page: STM 747 YUL Airport / Downtown shuttle

Official fare page: STM 747 fare

The 747 is Montreal’s main public transport link between YUL and the city. It is slower than a taxi in perfect traffic, but it is excellent value because the airport fare works as a 24-hour Zone A pass.

Key facts:

  • Fare: $11.25 per person.
  • Validity: 24 consecutive hours on bus, Metro, exo trains and REM in Zone A.
  • Frequency: departures generally every 10 to 20 minutes, all day, both directions.
  • Airport stop: Door 28.
  • Major transfer stops: Lionel-Groulx and Berri-UQAM.
  • Buses have luggage racks.
  • All stops on the line are universally accessible, and buses have front-door accessibility ramps.

747 Route 1: Centre-Ville / Downtown

This route runs between YUL Montreal-Trudeau airport and Berri-UQAM Metro station. It serves Lionel-Groulx Metro station and several downtown hotels along Rene-Levesque Boulevard.

Best for:

  • Downtown hotels.
  • Quartier des spectacles.
  • Berri-UQAM connections.
  • Old Montreal if you are willing to transfer or take a short taxi.
  • Budget travellers.

Important 2026 routing note: STM says that starting January 26, 2026, the 747-1 Centre-Ville departure point and terminus moved to Stop 52905 on Boulevard Rene-Levesque at Rue Berri due to work on the Berri integrated project. From the Metro, use Exit B – Rue Sainte-Catherine Est to reach Stop 52905.

747 Route 2: Metro

This route runs only between Lionel-Groulx Metro station and YUL Montreal-Trudeau airport.

Best for:

  • Faster connection to the Metro.
  • Travellers heading to Green or Orange line destinations.
  • Plateau, Verdun, Griffintown, downtown west, Atwater and Southwest connections.

Where to buy the 747 fare

You can buy the $11.25 fare:

  • On the bus with exact change only, no paper bills.
  • Through the Chrono mobile app.
  • At fare vending machines in the international arrivals area at Door 28.
  • At the STM information counter in the international arrivals area at Door 28.
  • At Metro station fare booths and vending machines.
  • At the ticket counter in Gare d’autocars de Montreal.
  • At designated parking pay stations near 747 downtown stops.

Digital fare tip: STM says the digital fare must be activated before boarding the 747 and validated by the driver within 120 minutes. You need Wi-Fi or mobile data to activate it.

For reliable mobile data, compare travel eSIMs through <a href=”https://yesim.app/?partner_id=1973″ rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Yesim</a>.

Taxi from YUL

Official info: YUL taxis and accessible taxis

Taxi is the simplest door-to-door option from YUL.

Fixed fare between YUL and downtown Montreal:

  • 5:00 am to 11:00 pm: $49.45.
  • 11:00 pm to 5:00 am: $56.70.

For other destinations, fares are metered and vary by time and distance.

Official metered fare examples listed by YUL:

  • Initial meter fare: $4.10.
  • Per kilometre: $2.05.
  • Per minute: $0.77.
  • Minimum fare: $21.65.

Best for:

  • First-time arrivals with luggage.
  • Late-night arrivals.
  • Families.
  • Hotels not close to the 747 route or Metro.
  • Old Montreal and cruise terminal arrivals where luggage makes transfers annoying.

Pro tip: Use the official taxi line at the airport. Avoid unsolicited ride offers inside arrivals.

Uber and Ride-Share from YUL

Official info: YUL rideshare

YUL has a specific ride-share pickup process. If you want an UberX, go to Door 28 on the arrivals level and book in the pickup area.

YUL’s help centre says that after making your reservation, you receive a PIN code in the app and join the line to be assigned the next available driver on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best for:

  • Travellers already using Uber.
  • Trips outside downtown fixed-fare taxi zone.
  • Groups comparing app price vs taxi.
  • Times when taxi queue is long but ride-share is efficient.

Watch out:

  • Uber does not use the official taxi flat rate.
  • Surge pricing may apply.
  • Pickup logistics can feel different from other airports.

Car Rentals at YUL

YUL has rental car facilities and major operators at or near the airport. Many rental counters are connected to the P4 parking garage / airport rental area depending on company.

Good use cases:

  • Laurentians road trip.
  • Eastern Townships.
  • Quebec City with countryside stops.
  • Mont-Tremblant.
  • Charlevoix.
  • Multi-day Quebec itinerary.
  • Family trips where public transit does not reach the destination well.

Not ideal for:

  • Downtown-only stays.
  • Old Montreal.
  • Plateau / Mile End weekends.
  • Winter visitors not comfortable with snow and parking rules.

Compare rental options: <a href=”https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=Valsoray” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>DiscoverCars</a>.

Local STM Buses at YUL

Besides the 747, YUL is served by local STM bus routes such as 204, 209 and 460, plus night routes depending on schedule. These can be useful for Dorval, West Island, local worker trips or very specific connections, but most visitors should use the 747, taxi or ride-share.

OPUS, ARTM Zones & Transit Fares

Official ARTM fare schedule: ARTM fare schedule

STM fares: STM transit fares

STM fare PDF effective July 1, 2026: STM fare schedule PDF

Public transit fares in Greater Montreal are set through the ARTM fare system. STM operates Montreal Metro and buses, while other operators include exo, REM, STL, RTL and others.

Fare Zones

Greater Montreal uses zones:

  • Zone A: Agglomeration of Montreal.
  • Zone B: Laval and Longueuil.
  • Zone C: Northern and Southern suburbs.
  • Zone D: Municipalities outside the ARTM limit.

For most short-stay visitors staying in Montreal city, Zone A is the key zone.

ARTM states that Bus or All Modes fares are valid for 120 minutes from first use and allow several transit services on the same trip, subject to fare rules. You cannot use the same fare consecutively on the same bus line, such as exiting and reboarding the same bus route.

July 1, 2026 Fare Schedule Highlights

STM has published a new fare schedule effective July 1, 2026. If you travel before July 1, check the current fare schedule; if you travel from July 1 onward, use the new values below.

Zone A – Montreal

FareRegular price effective July 1, 2026
1-trip, All Modes A$3.75
2-trip, All Modes A$7.00
10-trip, All Modes A$35.00
24-hr, All Modes A$11.25
3-day, All Modes A$21.75
Weekly, All Modes A$33.25
Monthly, All Modes A$110.00
Unlimited Evening$6.75
Unlimited Weekend$17.00

The 24-hour All Modes A fare is valid on the 747 airport bus. The Unlimited Weekend pass is also accepted on the 747 according to STM’s 747 fare page. Unlimited Evening is not a substitute for the airport fare.

Multi-zone fares effective July 1, 2026

FareABABCABCD
1-trip, All Modes$5.00$7.00$9.50
2-trip, All Modes$9.75$13.50$18.50
10-trip, All Modes$47.50$61.75$84.25
24-hr, All Modes$13.75$17.75$22.75
3-day, All Modes$29.25$41.25$56.25
Monthly, All Modes$170.00$206.00$281.00

OPUS Card

OPUS is the reloadable fare card used in Greater Montreal. A standard OPUS card without photo costs $6 and must be loaded with a fare.

You can buy or reload fares:

  • At Metro station fare vending machines.
  • At fare booths.
  • Through the Chrono app for supported products.
  • At metropolitan ticket offices and authorized retailers.

For a very short visit, a non-reloadable magnetic fare card or contactless ticket may be enough. For a longer stay, OPUS is more convenient.

Free and Reduced Travel

Children aged 11 and under can travel free at all times when accompanied by a person aged 14 or older who has a valid validated fare. The accompanying person can supervise up to five children aged 6 to 11.

Residents of the Montreal agglomeration aged 65 and over can ride free within Zone A with the Free 65+, All Modes A fare.

Reduced fares usually require a photo ID OPUS card, especially for students and eligible seniors.

Metro, Bus, REM & exo

Montreal Metro

Official STM Metro info: STM Metro

Montreal’s Metro is fast, frequent and usually the easiest way to travel inside central Montreal. It is also useful in winter, when underground connections and station access can save time.

The four Metro lines are:

  • Line 1 – Green.
  • Line 2 – Orange.
  • Line 4 – Yellow.
  • Line 5 – Blue.

Important visitor stations:

  • Berri-UQAM: Orange, Green and Yellow lines; main transfer hub; near bus terminal.
  • Lionel-Groulx: Orange and Green lines; key 747 airport bus transfer.
  • Bonaventure: closest Metro access for Gare Centrale / Central Station.
  • Lucien-L’Allier: commuter train connections and Bell Centre.
  • Place-d’Armes: Old Montreal and cruise terminal area.
  • Champ-de-Mars: Old Montreal and CHUM area.
  • Peel / McGill: downtown shopping, hotels, McGill University.
  • Jean-Drapeau: Parc Jean-Drapeau, festivals, La Ronde access.
  • Mont-Royal / Laurier / Rosemont: Plateau neighbourhoods.
  • Jean-Talon: Little Italy and Jean-Talon Market access.
  • Snowdon: Orange and Blue line transfer.

Best for:

  • Downtown, Plateau, Mile End, Old Montreal and festivals.
  • Winter travel.
  • Avoiding traffic.
  • Connecting to the 747 at Lionel-Groulx.

Watch out:

  • Not all Metro stations are fully accessible.
  • Late-night service is limited; use night buses, taxi or ride-share after Metro hours.
  • Major events can crowd stations such as Berri-UQAM, Place-des-Arts, Bonaventure and Jean-Drapeau.

STM Buses

STM buses fill the gaps between Metro lines and are essential for neighbourhoods such as Griffintown, the West Island, Lachine, Outremont edges, Mount Royal viewpoints and many local destinations.

Useful bus concepts:

  • The 747 is the airport bus.
  • Night buses serve routes after Metro service ends.
  • Some high-frequency lines are easier for visitors than local infrequent routes.
  • Bus transfers use the same fare rules as other Zone A services when valid.

Pro tip: Use the Chrono app, Google Maps or Transit app for live routing. Montreal bus detours can happen during construction, snow, festivals and summer street closures.

REM – Reseau express metropolitain

Official website: REM

REM is Greater Montreal’s automated light metro network. As of June 2026, the REM official site says 23 stations are in service connecting Brossard, Deux-Montagnes and Anse-a-l’Orme.

Important visitor use cases:

  • Gare Centrale to Brossard / South Shore.
  • Connections from downtown to REM-served suburbs.
  • Future airport access once the YUL segment opens.

Important airport note:

  • The YUL airport REM station is not open yet as of June 9, 2026.
  • REM’s airport page says construction continues until 2026 and commissioning on the airport segment is expected in 2027 after systems integration and testing.

Best for:

  • South Shore trips.
  • Downtown-to-suburb rapid transit.
  • Travellers staying near Gare Centrale and going to REM-served destinations.

exo Regional Trains

Official schedules: exo train schedules

exo operates regional commuter trains around Greater Montreal. These are useful for suburbs and commuter corridors, not usually for short inner-city tourism.

Major exo rail directions include:

  • Vaudreuil/Hudson.
  • Saint-Jerome.
  • Mont-Saint-Hilaire.
  • Candiac.
  • Mascouche.

Key downtown terminals:

  • Gare Centrale.
  • Lucien-L’Allier.

Best for:

  • Regional commuters.
  • Suburban visits.
  • Travellers connecting to specific towns.
  • Longer stays outside central Montreal.

Pro tip: exo trains are less frequent than the Metro and often commute-oriented. Always check schedules before planning a trip.

Rail & Train Stations

Gare Centrale / Montreal Central Station

Official VIA Rail page: Montreal Central Station

Station website: garecentrale.ca

Address: 895 de la Gauchetiere West, Montreal, QC H3B 4G1, Canada

Montreal Central Station is the main intercity train station and one of the city’s most important transport hubs.

Services include:

  • VIA Rail to Quebec City, Ottawa, Toronto and other Corridor destinations.
  • Amtrak Adirondack route to New York when operating.
  • REM at Gare Centrale.
  • exo commuter train services on selected lines.
  • Underground connections to downtown and Bonaventure Metro.

VIA Rail station hours listed:

  • Monday to Saturday: 5:30 am to 11:00 pm.
  • Sunday: 7:30 am to 11:00 pm.

VIA ticket counter hours listed:

  • Monday to Saturday: 5:15 am to 7:30 pm.
  • Sunday: 7:15 am to 7:30 pm.

Best for:

  • Toronto, Ottawa and Quebec City by train.
  • Long-distance rail across Canada via VIA connections.
  • Downtown arrivals.
  • REM connections.
  • Cruise passengers who want a short taxi or Metro connection to the Old Port.

Pro tip: Central Station is connected to Montreal’s underground network, but the underground passages can be confusing. Leave extra time if transferring between Metro, REM, VIA, hotel towers and street exits.

Dorval VIA Rail Station

Official VIA Rail page: Dorval train station

Address: 755 Montreal-Toronto Blvd, Dorval, QC H9S 1A1, Canada

Dorval Station is near the airport area and can be useful for some VIA Rail trips, especially if you are connecting between YUL and corridor trains. It is not inside the airport terminal, so plan a shuttle, taxi or local connection.

Best for:

  • Some YUL-to-VIA rail connections.
  • West Island access.
  • Avoiding downtown if your itinerary allows it.

Lucien-L’Allier Station

Official exo page: Lucien-L’Allier station

Lucien-L’Allier is a downtown commuter rail terminal connected to Lucien-L’Allier Metro station on the Orange Line and located near the Bell Centre.

exo describes it as the terminating station for:

  • Vaudreuil-Hudson.
  • Saint-Jerome.
  • Candiac.

Best for:

  • Commuter rail to west/north/southwest suburbs.
  • Bell Centre area.
  • Transfers between Orange Line and exo trains.

Pro tip: Do not confuse Gare Centrale and Lucien-L’Allier. They are both downtown rail hubs, but they serve different trains.

Central Bus Terminal

Gare d’autocars de Montreal

Official website: gamtl.com

Tourism listing: Gare d’autocars de Montreal

Passenger phone: 514-842-2281

Common public listing:

  • Ticket office / station listing: 1717 Berri Street, Montreal, QC H2L 4E9.
  • Official contact page also lists access through 550 Ontario Street East, Door 1 of the parking garage.

The bus terminal is beside Berri-UQAM Metro, one of Montreal’s most important transit interchanges.

Gare d’autocars serves:

  • Regional buses in Quebec.
  • Intercity buses to Ontario.
  • Cross-border buses to the United States.
  • Operators and routes such as Orleans Express, Maheux, Galland, Trailways/New York routes, FlixBus/Greyhound-related services depending on schedule and ticket.

Facilities listed by tourism sources include:

  • Intercity tickets.
  • Coach parking.
  • Luggage storage.
  • Parcel shipping.
  • Accessible facilities.

Best for:

  • Quebec City by bus.
  • Ottawa by bus.
  • New York / Boston routes depending on operator.
  • Regional Quebec destinations.
  • Travellers connecting from Berri-UQAM Metro.

Important 2026 note: STM says the 747 downtown terminus moved to Stop 52905 on Rene-Levesque and Berri starting January 26, 2026, about 10 minutes on foot from the bus terminal. Do not assume the 747 departure is directly at the coach terminal entrance.

Cruise, River Shuttle & Port Hubs

Grand Quay of the Port of Montreal

Official port access page: Port of Montreal terminal access

Grand Quay contact page: Grand Quay

Address for Terminals 1 and 2:

  • 200 De la Commune Street West, Montreal, QC H2Y 4B2.

Grand Quay contact:

  • Phone: 514-370-QUAI / 514-370-7824.

Grand Quay is Montreal’s main cruise terminal area in the Old Port. It is close to Old Montreal, Pointe-a-Calliere, Place-d’Armes Metro and the waterfront.

Best transport choices:

  • Taxi from YUL if you have cruise luggage.
  • 747 bus to downtown/Berri or Lionel-Groulx plus Metro/taxi if travelling light.
  • Metro to Place-d’Armes, then walk if luggage is manageable.
  • Taxi from Gare Centrale if arriving by VIA Rail.

Best for:

  • Cruise passengers.
  • Old Port arrivals.
  • Visitors combining Montreal with Quebec/St. Lawrence cruises.

Pro tip: If you are boarding a cruise, use the exact terminal instructions from your cruise line. Port of Montreal has different terminal/berth references, including Grand Quay terminals and other berth addresses.

Montreal River Shuttles

STM river shuttle info: STM river shuttles

Old Port info: Old Port river shuttles

Montreal’s seasonal river shuttles are part transport, part scenic experience. STM notes the river shuttles return for the 2026 season from May 22 for some lines, with frequencies varying by route, often around 45 to 60 minutes during peak hours.

Routes can include connections such as:

  • Old Port – Boucherville.
  • Old Port – Pointe-aux-Trembles – Varennes.
  • Old Port – Ile Sainte-Helene – Longueuil.
  • Express Old Port – Ile Sainte-Helene.

Old Port 2026 information lists standard fare examples of $6 per trip for some shuttles, with no transfers, but route prices and schedules should be checked before travel.

Best for:

  • Scenic river travel.
  • Parc Jean-Drapeau and Ile Sainte-Helene.
  • Boucherville and riverfront outings.
  • Summer visitors who want transport to feel like a mini-cruise.

Watch out:

  • Seasonal service.
  • Weather and water conditions can affect operations.
  • Not every route runs every day for the whole season.

Taxi & Ride Options

Taxis in Montreal

Taxis are widely available downtown, at YUL, around major hotels, at Gare Centrale, at Gare d’autocars and near nightlife districts.

Best uses:

  • Airport transfers with luggage.
  • Late nights after Metro service ends.
  • Cruise terminal transfers.
  • Winter storms.
  • Trips between neighbourhoods not well connected by direct Metro.

Common taxi brands/apps include:

  • Téo Taxi.
  • Taxi Coop.
  • Diamond Taxi.
  • Bonjour Taxi.

Airport note: YUL-to-downtown has the fixed fare listed above. Non-airport trips use the meter.

Ride-share

Uber operates in Montreal and at YUL under specific pickup rules. Ride-share can be useful for:

  • Late-night trips.
  • Airport-to-non-downtown destinations.
  • Trips with luggage.
  • Suburban hotels.
  • Areas not close to Metro.

Watch out:

  • App prices can surge.
  • Pickup points at YUL are regulated.
  • For YUL-to-downtown, compare Uber price with the fixed taxi fare before booking.

Rentals & Shared Mobility

Car Rentals

Montreal is not a city where most visitors need a car every day. The Metro, walking, taxis, BIXI and buses cover the core well. But a car is useful outside the island.

Good car rental use cases:

  • Mont-Tremblant.
  • Laurentians.
  • Eastern Townships.
  • Quebec City road trip.
  • Charlevoix.
  • Gaspesie.
  • Ski trips.
  • Family travel with luggage.

Avoid renting for:

  • Old Montreal.
  • Downtown-only stay.
  • Plateau / Mile End restaurant trips.
  • Festival weekends.

Driving notes:

  • Montreal has complicated parking rules.
  • Snow removal parking signs matter in winter.
  • Some streets close for festivals or pedestrian summer zones.
  • Right turns on red are prohibited on the island of Montreal unless posted otherwise.
  • Potholes and construction are part of the local driving experience.

Compare rental options through <a href=”https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=Valsoray” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>DiscoverCars</a>.

BIXI Bike Share

Official website: BIXI pricing

BIXI is Montreal’s bike-share system and one of the city’s best ways to move in good weather. It works well for Plateau, Mile End, downtown, Old Montreal, Rosemont, the Lachine Canal, the riverfront and neighbourhood hopping.

2026 pricing checked:

  • One-way unlock fee: $1.60.
  • Security deposit: $100 per bike.
  • Regular BIXI: $0.21 per minute.
  • Electric BIXI: $0.36 per minute.
  • Seasonal membership: April 15 to November 15.
  • Seasonal membership includes unlimited regular BIXI rides up to 45 minutes; overage and e-bike rates apply.

BIXI also has year-round service in selected conditions and areas, but winter operations can be affected by weather.

Best for:

  • Plateau and Mile End.
  • Old Montreal to Lachine Canal.
  • Canal paths.
  • Short one-way trips.
  • Summer festival movement.

Watch out:

  • E-bikes cost more.
  • One-way rides can become expensive if you ride a long time.
  • Dock the bike properly and wait for confirmation.
  • Use bike lanes; Montreal drivers and cyclists move with confidence.

Walking

Montreal is a strong walking city. Some of the best areas are:

  • Old Montreal.
  • Downtown / Golden Square Mile.
  • Plateau Mont-Royal.
  • Mile End.
  • Little Italy.
  • Jean-Talon Market.
  • Griffintown.
  • Lachine Canal.
  • Mount Royal.
  • Quartier des spectacles.

Walking plus Metro is often the best visitor combination.

FAQ

What is the best way from Montreal airport to downtown?

For budget travel, take the STM 747 bus. It costs $11.25 and includes a 24-hour Zone A pass. For door-to-door convenience, take an official taxi; the fixed fare to downtown is $49.45 by day and $56.70 overnight.

Is there a train from YUL airport to downtown Montreal?

Not yet as of June 9, 2026. The REM airport station is under construction, with commissioning for the airport segment expected in 2027 after systems integration and testing.

Where does the 747 airport bus stop at YUL?

STM lists the YUL airport stop at Door 28.

Does the 747 run all night?

The 747 operates all day, and public information describes it as a 24-hour airport link. Always check STM schedules before travelling late at night or early in the morning.

Can I use a normal Metro ticket on the 747?

A regular 1-trip fare is not enough. STM says the 747 uses a special $11.25 fare, and all transit fares of $11.25 and more are accepted on board, including 24-hour, 3-day, weekly, monthly and eligible unlimited weekend products.

Does the 747 fare include the Metro?

Yes. The $11.25 747 fare gives you a 24-hour pass for bus, Metro, exo trains and REM in Zone A.

What is Zone A in Montreal transit?

Zone A is the agglomeration of Montreal. Most visitor trips within the city are Zone A.

Do I need an OPUS card as a tourist?

Not always. For a short visit, you can use non-reloadable tickets or passes. If you will stay longer and ride transit often, an OPUS card is more convenient.

Which train station should I use in Montreal?

For VIA Rail, Amtrak and many intercity rail trips, use Gare Centrale / Montreal Central Station. For some exo commuter lines, use Lucien-L’Allier. Check your ticket carefully.

Where is Montreal’s main bus terminal?

Gare d’autocars de Montreal is near Berri-UQAM Metro. Tourism listings use 1717 Berri Street; the terminal’s official contact page also mentions access through 550 Ontario Street East.

Is Montreal good without a car?

Yes. Most visitor neighbourhoods are easy by Metro, walking, bus, BIXI, taxi and ride-share. A car is useful mainly for trips outside Montreal.

Is BIXI good for tourists?

Yes, especially for short rides in central neighbourhoods. Check pricing carefully because one-way per-minute rides can cost more than transit if you keep the bike too long.

How do I get to the cruise terminal in Montreal?

The Grand Quay cruise terminal is in the Old Port at 200 De la Commune Street West. Use taxi with luggage, Metro to Place-d’Armes if travelling light, or a short taxi from Gare Centrale.

Tips for Smooth Travel in Montreal

Use the 747 for airport value. It is the best budget airport transfer because the $11.25 fare works as a 24-hour Zone A transit pass.

Use taxis for luggage-heavy airport and cruise trips. Montreal’s public transport is strong, but stairs, sidewalks, snow and cobblestones can make luggage transfers unpleasant.

Know the July 1 fare change. The STM fare schedule effective July 1, 2026 includes a $110 monthly Zone A pass, $35 10-trip Zone A fare, $11.25 24-hour pass and $17 Unlimited Weekend pass.

Remember the airport train is not open yet. Do not plan on REM to YUL until the airport segment opens.

Use Lionel-Groulx wisely. It is one of the easiest 747-to-Metro transfer points because it connects the Orange and Green lines.

Use Berri-UQAM for connections. It links three Metro lines and is near the coach terminal, but it can be busy and confusing.

Download Chrono. It helps with trip planning, service alerts, OPUS reload features, BIXI, active transport and river shuttles.

Plan winter travel with buffer time. Snow, freezing rain and slush can slow buses, taxis, walking and airport access.

Check festival closures. Montreal closes streets often for festivals, markets, construction and summer pedestrian zones.

Use the Metro for speed. For most city trips, Metro beats driving.

Use BIXI for short rides. It is great for 10-25 minute hops, not always for long scenic rides unless you understand the pricing.

Use river shuttles as experience transport. In season, the river routes are a low-cost way to see Montreal from the water.

Book hotels by transit logic. Downtown, Old Montreal, Quartier des spectacles, Plateau, Mile End and Griffintown all feel different. Compare stays through <a href=”https://expedia.com/affiliates/hedonism/cloud” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Expedia</a>.

Book tours when they simplify the city. Food tours, Old Montreal walks, bike tours, Quebec City day trips and Laurentians excursions can save planning time. Browse options through <a href=”https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00282913&mcid=42383&medium=link” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Viator</a>.

Stay connected. A working phone helps with Chrono, maps, Uber, BIXI and weather alerts. For travel eSIMs, compare options through <a href=”https://yesim.app/?partner_id=1973″ rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Yesim</a>.

For longer trips, consider travel medical coverage. If you are travelling long-term or working remotely, review policy details through <a href=”https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=26541585&utm_source=26541585&utm_medium=Ambassador” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>SafetyWing</a>.

Support independent travel guides. If this project helps you plan better, you can support HEDONISM.cloud on <a href=”https://www.patreon.com/HEDONISMcloud” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Patreon</a>.

Useful Contacts

YUL Montreal-Trudeau International Airport

  • Website: admtl.com
  • Address: 975 boulevard Romeo-Vachon Nord, Dorval, QC H4Y 1H1
  • General information: 514-633-3333
  • Toll-free: 1-800-465-1213
  • TTY/ATS: 1-800-855-1155
  • Email: yulsatisfaction@admtl.com

STM – Societe de transport de Montreal

  • Website: stm.info
  • Trip planning / general inquiries / OPUS: 514-786-4636 + 8 + 4
  • Bus schedule phone: 514-288-6287
  • Lost and found: 514-786-4636 + 8 + 7 + 1

ARTM

  • Website: artm.quebec
  • Phone listed on ARTM points-of-sale page: 514-409-2786

exo

  • Website: exo.quebec
  • Customer service: 514-287-8726
  • Toll-free: 1-888-702-8726

REM

VIA Rail – Montreal Central Station

Gare Centrale

  • Website: garecentrale.ca
  • Phone: 514-871-0925
  • Address: 895 Rue De la Gauchetiere O., Montreal, QC H3B 4G1

Gare d’autocars de Montreal

  • Website: gamtl.com
  • Passenger price and schedules: 514-842-2281
  • Public station listing: 1717 Berri Street, Montreal, QC H2L 4E9

BIXI

  • Website: bixi.com
  • Customer service: 514-789-BIXI / 514-789-2494
  • Toll-free: 1-877-820-2453
  • Email: info@bixi.com

Port of Montreal / Grand Quay

  • Website: port-montreal.com
  • Grand Quay phone: 514-370-7824
  • Cruise terminal address: 200 De la Commune Street West, Montreal, QC H2Y 4B2

Emergency

  • Police, fire, ambulance: 911

Travel Planning Tools

Use these only when they genuinely fit your trip:

  • Mobile data/eSIM: <a href=”https://yesim.app/?partner_id=1973″ rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Yesim</a>
  • Hotels and trip packages: <a href=”https://expedia.com/affiliates/hedonism/cloud” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Expedia</a>
  • Tours, food walks and day trips: <a href=”https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00282913&mcid=42383&medium=link” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Viator</a>
  • Car rentals: <a href=”https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=Valsoray” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>DiscoverCars</a>
  • Travel medical insurance: <a href=”https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=26541585&utm_source=26541585&utm_medium=Ambassador” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>SafetyWing</a>
  • Support independent travel guides: <a href=”https://www.patreon.com/HEDONISMcloud” rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Patreon – HEDONISM.cloud</a>

Affiliate disclosure: Some links above are sponsored or affiliate links. They help support the project at no extra cost to you. Recommendations are included only where they are useful for the trip.

Final Word

Montreal is easy once you understand its hubs. Use the 747 bus or taxi for YUL. Use the Metro for the city. Use Gare Centrale for VIA Rail, Amtrak and REM. Use Lucien-L’Allier for specific exo commuter lines. Use Gare d’autocars for coach travel. Use Grand Quay for cruises and the Old Port. Use BIXI and river shuttles when the weather makes the journey part of the fun.

The city rewards travellers who move lightly: a Metro ride to the Plateau, a walk through Old Montreal, a BIXI along the canal, a REM ride from Gare Centrale, a 747 back to the airport. Plan the hubs first, and Montreal feels generous, readable and full of good detours.

Safe travels and enjoy Montreal.

Sources Checked

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