Getting Around Montreal: A Comprehensive Guide
A seamless blend of French and Canadian influences, Montreal is a chic, vibrant city packed with cultural gems, historic architecture, and a thriving dining scene. As Quebec’s largest city, you’ll find countless things to do scattered across charming neighborhoods and the city center.
Navigating Montreal’s Public Transport System
The metro and bus network in Montreal is Canada’s busiest rapid-transit system, efficiently moving locals and visitors around safely. The network is expertly managed, providing a reliable and swift means of getting around the city.
Get There Faster by Metro
Montreal boasts an extensive metro network with four numbered, color-coded lines connecting 68 stations. The service runs entirely underground, which is especially convenient during the wintry months. The metro is noted for its reliability and provides an efficient way to navigate the city. Uniquely, Montreal’s metro trains run on rubber tires, which offers a quieter ride and faster acceleration.
Explore the City by Bus
The bus network complements the metro service with over 200 lines crossing the city. Since metro stations may require a long walk to your final destination, many residents opt to use buses for convenience. Late-night travel is easily accommodated with numerous all-night bus routes available.
Stretch Your Budget for Longer Stays with an OPUS Card
Montreal’s integrated transit system simplifies travel between the metro and bus. A single ticket for either mode costs CA$3.75 and allows for transfers within 120 minutes of the first trip. For those staying longer, a rechargeable OPUS card can lead to significant savings, offering various options for unlimited travel.
Enjoy the Fresh Air and Exercise with Biking
Montreal’s bike-sharing system has flourished since its launch in 2014, featuring more than 10,000 bikes across 865 docking stations. With over 435 miles of bike paths available, it is an ideal city for cycling. However, bikes are not available during winter when snowy conditions make riding unsafe.
Take the Train to Explore Beyond the City
Exo manages Montreal’s commuter train system, connecting the city center to various suburbs. While not common for first-time visitors, these trains provide an excellent opportunity to explore areas such as Kahnawà:ke and the scenic Laurentians. Additionally, Via Rail offers convenient long-distance travel options, linking Montreal to cities like Quebec City, Halifax, and Ottawa.
Accessible Travel in Montreal
The city is committed to enhancing accessibility within its public transport network. While only a portion of metro stations are currently accessible, ongoing renovations aim to improve this. Buses are also universally wheelchair accessible, with many equipped with ramps for added convenience.
For detailed route planning, utilizing the transit authority’s available resources can help ensure an accessible journey.
This article was initially published on June 28, 2021, and updated on October 2, 2024.
