Getting around Montreal efficiently and affordably is easier than you might think. Like many major cities, Montreal boasts a comprehensive public transportation system that locals and tourists alike rely on daily. Forget the stress of navigating busy streets and expensive parking; opting for Transport Public Montreal, especially the metro, is often the quickest and most pleasant way to explore the city.
If you’re planning to spend most of your time in downtown Montreal, Old Montreal, or the vibrant Plateau neighborhood, the metro system is undoubtedly your best choice. But Montreal’s public transit extends far beyond the city center. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about using transport public Montreal, including the metro, buses, and other convenient options for venturing further afield.
Mastering the Montreal Metro System
Montrealers often favor the metro over the bus, and for good reason. While buses are affected by Montreal’s infamous road construction and frequent route changes, the metro system offers a clean, reliable, and extensive network. It efficiently covers the downtown core and reaches into several Montreal suburbs, such as Lasalle, Laval, and the South Shore.
Fares and Tickets:
For occasional trips, a single metro ride costs $3.75 CAD, or you can purchase two tickets for $7. If you plan on using public transport extensively in a single day, a 24-hour pass is a worthwhile investment at $11. For those who primarily travel after 6 p.m., the evening pass offers unlimited travel until 5 a.m. for just $6. Good news for families: children aged 11 and under ride for free!
Operating Hours and Routes:
The Montreal metro operates from 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on weeknights, extending its service until 1:30 a.m. on weekends. During peak rush hours, trains arrive frequently, approximately every 3-5 minutes. Evening service is less frequent, with trains arriving roughly every 10 minutes from 9 p.m. onwards.
Staying Informed About Service Alerts:
While the Montreal metro is known for its reliability, occasional delays and interruptions can occur, particularly during the city’s bustling festival season. Service alerts are announced in both French and English within metro cars and stations. For real-time updates on major delays or service disruptions, you can also consult the STM (Société de transport de Montréal) apps or their active Twitter account.
Understanding Transfers:
A single fare allows for one bus transfer, simplifying journeys that combine metro and bus travel. However, re-entry into the metro system is not included in a single fare if you exit the station. Transferring between metro lines within the system is seamless and doesn’t require an additional fare, as long as you stay within the station. Well-marked transfer stations facilitate easy navigation between lines without needing to go above ground.
Accessibility Considerations:
Compared to older metro systems, Montreal’s boasts minimal gaps between the platform and train, making boarding and disembarking easier for passengers with mobility aids or luggage. However, it’s important to note that not all metro stations are fully wheelchair accessible. Many stations rely on stairs instead of escalators or elevators. Fortunately, the STM provides a free metro map that clearly indicates accessible stations. All metro lines offer designated wheelchair seating and incorporate both audio and visual announcements for each stop, enhancing accessibility for all riders.
Montreal Metro Map showcasing the different lines and stations.
Exploring Montreal by Bus
While the metro excels in covering the downtown core and immediate suburbs, the STM bus network expands your reach significantly. Montreal buses can take you to Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, the West Island, and even further destinations. Local buses operate daily, but be aware that winter conditions, especially snowfall, can cause delays. The night bus service complements the daytime routes, ensuring comprehensive coverage and convenient late-night transportation for metro users returning home after the metro closes.
Bus Routes and Schedules:
Buses operate 24 hours a day, providing a valuable transportation option when the metro service ends at 1 a.m. Wait times for buses typically range from 5 to 30 minutes. For solo travelers using the bus at night, a safety feature allows you to request the driver to drop you off between designated stops if needed.
Bus Fares and Payment:
Montreal transit fares are consistent across both bus and metro ($3.75 CAD per single ride). However, unlike the metro, buses only accept payment by cash or pre-purchased tickets. Montreal transit cards are not sold directly on buses.
An STM 747 bus, a common sight in Montreal’s public transport network.
Payment Options for Montreal Public Transit
Paying for transport public Montreal is straightforward, with several convenient options applicable to both the metro and bus systems. Tickets and passes can be purchased at all metro stations and at some dépanneurs (convenience stores) and grocery stores, although this is less common.
Be mindful that metro station kiosks can become particularly busy at the beginning of each month when locals are renewing their monthly passes. If you’re traveling during this peak period, try to avoid rush hour when purchasing fares. To bypass potential lines, consider using the Chrono app to top up your Opus card (more on Opus cards below).
The Opus Card:
The Opus card is arguably the most popular payment method among Montreal residents. This rechargeable card costs $6 and can be purchased at metro stations or through the Chrono app. If you plan to purchase weekly passes or longer-term passes, an Opus card is essential.
Day and Weekend Passes:
For tourists and short-term visitors, day and weekend passes offer excellent value. The day pass, pre-loaded onto a ticket, costs $11 CAD and provides unlimited travel for 24 hours. The weekend pass is slightly more expensive at $15.25 but grants access from 4 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday morning, perfect for weekend getaways.
Cash Payments:
Cash is accepted at metro station kiosks. While buses accept cash, they do not sell Opus cards and do not provide change. Therefore, if paying by cash on the bus, using exact change is recommended. Metro station kiosk employees can provide change for larger bills.
Credit Card Payments:
Credit cards are accepted for ticket purchases at all metro station kiosks and within the Chrono app. You can use credit cards to reload your Opus card or purchase single ride or day passes. However, credit cards are not accepted as payment directly on buses.
Exploring Beyond with Other Transit Options
While transport public Montreal is excellent for daily commuting and city exploration, several alternative options cater to specific needs and preferences.
747 Airport Shuttle Bus:
An extension of the STM bus service, the 747 shuttle bus provides a direct and economical link between Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and downtown Montreal. For a fare of $11, the 747 is an easy and cost-effective way to reach downtown from the airport and vice versa. Allow at least 70 minutes for the journey to the airport during rush hour. Tickets can be purchased at STM kiosks or via the app. While cash payment is possible on the bus, it requires exact change in coins and is best avoided.
BIXI Bike Sharing:
Montreal is a cyclist-friendly city, especially during the warmer months. If you’re comfortable cycling, consider using BIXI, Montreal’s bike-sharing program. With over 6,000 bikes and 500 stations across the island, BIXI offers a convenient and active way to explore. Single ride rentals cost $1.35 to unlock, plus per-minute charges (20 or 30 cents depending on whether it’s a regular or electric bike). For longer stays and frequent cycling, a month pass is available for $22, including rides up to 45 minutes long without extra charges.
car2go Car Sharing:
car2go, a car-sharing app, has become popular in Montreal. Ideal for errands or transporting luggage, the app allows you to locate and rent nearby Smart cars or Mercedes. The cost is approximately $1 per minute, and pick-up and drop-off are usually on residential streets or designated parking lots. Parking is included and free within designated zones.
Exo Train (Commuter Train):
For those venturing beyond Montreal’s island, the Exo train service is crucial for commuters from suburbs like Mont St-Hilaire or Vaudreuil. If you’re staying primarily in the city center, Exo might not be relevant. However, if your plans include exploring neighboring towns, Exo trains are your best public transport option.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps:
For time-sensitive travel, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Teo Taxi are readily available throughout Montreal and its suburbs. These services are commonly used by locals for convenient point-to-point transportation.
A BIXI bike in Montreal, promoting cycling as a great transport option.
Essential Tips for Getting Around Montreal
Navigating Montreal is generally straightforward, but these tips can make your experience even smoother:
Metro vs. Bus: Choose the Metro When Possible. Montreal’s reputation for construction is well-founded. Buses are frequently rerouted due to construction, and temporary bus stops can be confusing. The metro offers greater reliability and consistency.
Night Buses: Surprisingly Efficient. While the metro stops running after 1 a.m., night buses effectively fill the gap, ensuring commuters can get home late at night. Depending on your destination, a night bus might be a more economical alternative to surge-priced ride-sharing services, especially late Thursday to Sunday.
Express Buses: Save Commute Time. If you’re commuting from the suburbs, opt for express buses (clearly marked). They can significantly reduce travel time compared to local bus routes, particularly during rush hour.
Avoid Taxis/Ride-Sharing on Ste-Catherine Street. Ste-Catherine Street is notorious for traffic congestion. Unless you want to watch your fare increase while stuck in traffic, avoid taxis or ride-sharing on this street. Head one block south to René-Levesque Blvd. before hailing a ride.
Downtown Metro Stations: Closely Spaced and Underground Connected. If you accidentally exit at the wrong downtown metro stop, it’s not a major issue. The two main metro lines are connected via Montreal’s underground city (a network of office buildings and shopping malls). You can often walk from one side of downtown to the other without needing to re-enter the metro.
Metro Line Colors and Directions: Côte Vertu on the Orange Line. Montreal’s metro has four lines: green, orange, yellow, and blue. Train directions are indicated by color and the name of the last stop on the line, rather than compass directions. Pay close attention to these designations. For example, while “Côte Vertu” might sound like it belongs to the green line (vert is French for green), it’s actually the last stop on the southbound orange line.
By utilizing transport public Montreal, you can confidently and affordably navigate this vibrant city, experiencing all it has to offer without the hassles of driving and parking.
Explore Montreal Attractions
