Summary
A harmonious fusion of French and Canadian influences, Montréal is an elegant and lively city abundant with cultural treasures, historical architecture, and a booming culinary scene. As the largest city in Québec, you will encounter numerous enticing activities throughout the charming neighborhoods and the city center.
Furthermore, there is no need for concern when it comes to navigating Montréal; the metro and bus system is Canada’s most active rapid-transit network, efficiently moving both locals and visitors around the city. The entire network is managed by Société de Transport Montréal (Montréal Society of Transportation), often abbreviated as STM by residents.
In addition to the impressive blue metro cars and expansive bus service, the city features a robust bike-sharing program and trains that facilitate travel to the surrounding suburbs and beyond. Below is an overview of essential information regarding transportation in Montréal.
Get There Faster by Metro
Montréal features a comprehensive metro system, encompassing four numbered and color-coded lines connecting 68 stations. The service operates entirely underground, which is highly beneficial during periods of severe winter weather. Generally speaking, the metro enjoys a reliable reputation, providing a rapid means of transportation throughout the city. Unlike most underground systems in North America, Montréal’s rolling stock operates on rubber tires, a clear influence from France—this technology was pioneered in Paris during the 1950s and it results in a quieter mode of transport with increased acceleration capabilities.
The orange ligne deux (line 2) is particularly advantageous for visitors, linking Old Montréal with both downtown and key neighborhoods to the north, including the Quartier Latin, the Plateau, Mile End, and Little Italy. Although each line has slightly varying hours of operation, they typically function from 5:30 AM until approximately 12:30 AM from Sunday to Thursday, extending about 30 minutes later on Friday and Saturday nights.
Take the Bus for Better Views of City Neighborhoods
STM is likewise responsible for Montréal’s bus network, which effectively supplements the metro with over 200 lines traversing the city. As metro stations may sometimes necessitate a lengthy walk to reach specific destinations, residents often combine modes of transport as transfers between the two networks remain free. During late-night hours, the bus may serve as the sole transportation option, aside from costlier taxi or Uber alternatives. Approximately two dozen routes offer service throughout the night.
Stretch Your Budget on Longer Stays with an OPUS Card
Montréal’s integrated transit framework facilitates seamless travel between the metro and bus systems. Fares are assessed by zones, with zone A encompassing all of Montréal. A single bus or metro ticket is priced at CA$3.75 and allows for transfers between the bus and metro for up to 120 minutes from the initial trip. Two-ride tickets ($7) are available at metro stations, pharmacies, and dépanneurs (convenience stores). On the bus, cash payments are also accepted, though change is not provided.
For those spending an extended period in Montréal, a rechargeable OPUS card can provide a cost-effective option. The card costs $6 initially and can later be recharged at a discounted rate for 10 rides ($33.25), unlimited rides for 24 hours ($11), or three consecutive days ($21.25). A one-week pass is also available for $31; however, potential users should note that the passes are valid from Monday to Sunday, making mid-week purchases less advantageous.
Enjoy the Fresh Air and a Bit of Exercise on a Bixi Bike
Established in 2014, Montréal’s bike-sharing program has expanded significantly. Currently, there are 865 docking stations and over 10,000 bicycles available, including more than 3,500 electric models, ideal for quick excursions around the city.
Before embarking on a bike ride, you may be curious about the city’s bike-friendliness. The answer is a resounding oui! Montréal boasts over 435 miles of bike paths, including lanes separated from traffic, establishing its reputation as a leading city for urban cycling. It has been recognized by various organizations, such as the Copenhagen Design Index, as one of the most bikeable major cities in North America. Nevertheless, should you visit during the winter, Bixi will be temporarily suspended; the bikes are operational from mid-April to mid-November due to treacherous conditions posed by snow-covered bike lanes.
For your convenience, download the official Bixi app to locate nearby stations and rent a bicycle through the app using a QR code to unlock the chosen bike. Alternatively, if you do not have access to your phone, you can purchase a one-way pass using a credit card, which provides a five-digit code to unlock a bike. For frequent riders, a monthly membership is available for $22 (via the app), granting unlimited 45-minute rides on standard bikes. Non-members will incur a charge of $1.35 to unlock the bike, plus $0.20 per minute for standard bikes (and $0.35 per minute for electric bikes), with a $100 security deposit held on the card until the rental bike is returned.
Take the Train to Explore Beyond the City
Exo (also referred to as RTM) manages the commuter train services in Montréal. Five train lines connect the city center to the surrounding suburbs, stretching in all directions. While typically not sought after by first-time visitors to Montréal, these trains offer opportunities to venture off the beaten path, enabling visits to locations such as the First Nations reserve of Kahnawà:ke, as well as the city of Saint-Jérôme, which serves as a gateway to adventures in the Laurentian Mountains.
To further explore Canada, consider the nation’s excellent long-distance train service, Via Rail, with routes available from Gare Centrale in downtown that take just over three hours to reach Québec City. Longer journeys are available, including trips to Halifax (22 hours) or the option to head towards Ottawa (two hours) and onward to Toronto (five hours).
Accessible Travel in Montréal
The city has established ambitious objectives regarding the enhancement of accessibility across its public transport network. STM has made substantial investments toward renovating metro stations with the aim of achieving universal accessibility for all 68 stations. Regrettably, significant work remains. Presently, only 26 stations are fully accessible from street to platform, with an additional five stations undergoing renovations expected to be completed by 2025.
Even amidst ongoing developments, the accessible stations provide valuable support to travelers, including Place d’Armes in Old Montréal, Bonaventure in downtown, Mont-Royal for the Plateau, Jean-Talon for Little Italy, and Viau for Parc Olympique.
Moreover, the bus service serves as an even more efficient option for travelers with disabilities. All buses are now wheelchair accessible and feature mechanisms to “kneel” and deploy ramps (activated by the driver). However, the accessibility of all bus stops is still under development. For assistance in planning an accessible route, users can utilize the STM route planner by inputting the origin and destination points and selecting the “wheelchair accessible” option.
This article was first published on June 28, 2021, and updated on October 2, 2024.
