Getting Around in Style

This chapter will get you from point A to point B with ease.

Arrival

You'll probably be coming in by plane, landing at Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. It's easy to get downtown from there. You will find taxis and ubers on site, and there's public transport shuttles from the airport to downtown as well.

Walking Around

Montréal is a very walkable city. Want proof? It's so nice to get around by foot here that I've never learned how to drive, and I'm pushing 40. If that doesn't convince you, I'm not sure what will!

I should probably learn to drive at some point, though.

Footwear

You'll do fine with just any type of footwear. If I were to suggest specific shoes, it would be these two models right here:

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Public Transport

Montréal's public transport is reliable and safe. There are several bus routes (some even run at night) and the Métro, our subway system, covers the main areas. You can purchase fare at the airport or in any Métro station. The recommended fare to get is a 3 day, all-modes disposable card, called l'Occasionelle. It's valid for 3 days, counting from the first time you use it. The weekly pass is time-gated (begins on Sunday at 11:59 pm), you are probably better off purchasing another 3-day pass later in the trip (as needed).

Note that the STM's Chrono mobile app is used to recharge permanent fare cards called Opus, do not purchase fare on it, as the app does not act as a fare card itself.

Driving

Montréal is not the best city to drive in. There are a lot of one way streets, rush hour traffic is bad and there's often detours. Then, when you get to your destination, you might curse a little bit while looking around for parking. That being said, if you are coming in by car, you'll be fine! These remarks are more about the day to day driving. A friendly reminder that turning right on a red light is permitted everywhere in Québec, except on the island of Montréal, and in places where a sign prohibits it.

Cabs & Uber

Getting someone else to drive for you and not having to worry about parking, what's not to like? There's a few taxi companies operating in the city and uber is here too. Lyft does not operate here as of yet.

Bixi

Montréal is extremely bike friendly! Bixi is the public bicycle sharing system. There's an expansive network of bike lanes to get you through the city, its parks, and along the river. The monthly pass is cheap enough that if you're planning on multiple trips, it's probably the best option. Be advised that wearing a helmet is mandatory when riding the electric ones.