How to get around Montreal

The useful core

The metro and frequent buses cover the central visitor corridors, while walking works well within Old Montreal, downtown, the Plateau and Mile End. One Zone A fare covers travel within Montreal; as of 1 July 2026, a single trip costs CAD 3.75 and a 24-hour pass CAD 11.25. Buy the correct fare before entering the metro and keep any paper ticket through the journey.

The airport

The 747 bus is the current public-transport link between Montréal–Trudeau Airport and the city. It runs all day and night, with branches to Lionel-Groulx and the downtown/Berri-UQAM corridor. Its CAD 11.25 fare includes 24 hours of Zone A bus and metro travel. The REM airport branch is under construction and is scheduled for 2027; do not plan a current trip around it.

Beyond the grid

BIXI is useful for short trips when weather and street conditions cooperate, but the one-way pass charges an unlocking fee and then by the minute. The Lachine Canal and protected cycle routes are easier than improvising on busy streets. Metro accessibility remains partial, so check the exact stations and current elevator status before relying on a step-free route.

Driving is rarely the simplest choice in central neighbourhoods. Parking rules vary by street, temporary snow-removal signs take precedence in winter, and right turns on red are prohibited across the Island of Montreal. See Practical Information for personal-safety and weather precautions.

Tickets and passes

Montreal is Zone A within the regional fare system. The 24-hour and three-day products are useful when several rides or the 747 airport bus fall inside their validity. Regional trips can require a different zone product, so do not assume a city pass covers Laval, Longueuil or every commuter service.

Metro, bus and accessibility

The metro is fast for cross-city corridors, while buses fill the gaps and climb around Mount Royal. Service changes and elevator outages can alter an otherwise workable trip. All regular STM buses are accessible, but not every metro station is; consult the operator's current accessible-station list and allow a fallback route.

Walking and cycling

Walk within neighbourhoods rather than between every neighbourhood. Distances accumulate, and winter surfaces or summer heat change the effort. BIXI operates year-round in a limited winter service area, but availability and path conditions vary. Dock the bicycle correctly and confirm the trip has ended in the app.

Cars and regional travel

A car is most useful for destinations outside the rapid-transit network, not for the historic core. On the island, no right turn on red is permitted. Winter parking signs can be temporary and decisive. Central Station provides VIA Rail service along the Quebec–Ontario corridor, including direct travel toward Ottawa, Toronto and Quebec City.