How to Travel from Montréal-Trudeau Airport to Montreal by Bus or Car – A Practical Guide

Take the 747 Express bus from Montréal-Trudeau Airport to downtown Montreal. This direct route saves time and money, letting you bypass taxi lines and ride-sharing surges. Expect a straightforward ride to central hubs where you can connect to the metro, and then continue to your hotel or the district you plan to explore. Tickets are sold at arrivals kiosks or on the bus with PRESTO, and you can simply hop on and go.

From the airport, the 747 Express runs to Gare Centrale and Berri-UQAM in the heart of montreals citys. The service operates roughly every 15–20 minutes during the day and about every 30 minutes late at night. The ride takes 20–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Upon arrival, use taxis or the metro to reach your final destination, or walk to nearby boutiques if your hotel sits in the downtown core.

If you prefer a private option, hire a car service or arrange a private pickup in advance. Reserve through your hotel or a private provider to assist with luggage and delays. A private transfer to central Montreal typically costs CAD 40–70, depending on drop-off location and baggage. Those options keep you within your chosen schedule and reduce wait times after a flight.

Taxi stands are available in the arrivals area 24/7, and rideshare apps offer door-to-door options with comparable fares. A taxi or private hire can take you directly to Montreals neighborhoods or to the hotels along Saint-Catherine Street, avoiding multiple stops. If you need a reservation to secure a specific pickup time, make it in advance through the provider. Expect roughly CAD 35–60 to downtown, depending on traffic and distance.

Car rental counters sit in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with brands such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. If you hire a car, drive via Autoroute 20 East toward downtown, following signs to Centre-Ville. The drive typically takes 15–25 minutes in light traffic; during peak periods plan for 30–60 minutes. In the citys core, mind parking rules, meter limits, and time restrictions to avoid fines.

For planning on the go, check yulcom to compare schedules, fares, and pickup options. In the canadian transit landscape, their fleets include taxis, private hires, and shuttle services, offering reservations for those arriving with luggage. Across montreals citys, services run throughout the day, allowing you to simply decide whether to ride the bus, hire a private transfer, or drive yourself, and then head to boutiques, cafés, and neighborhoods to begin your Montreal adventure.

Where to Board the Montréal-Trudeau Airport Express Bus

Board at the in-terminal curb outside the Arrivals area–the official Montréal-Trudeau Airport Express Bus stop is clearly signposted. If you’re visiting Montreal, this is the fastest link to downtown and major transit hubs. For that type of service, it is ideal to head straight to the curb. The dispatcher and airport staff can assist you in finding their stop, and you’ll see the green Express Bus signs at the curb.

A ticket is required to ride. You can buy a single ticket or a pass, using the terminal vending machines, the official mobile app, or the driver if on-board payment is allowed. This ticketing system allows quick pickup and keeps you moving, regardless of when you arrive at the terminal.

Service runs with predictable frequency: roughly every 15–20 minutes on weekdays; weekends see slightly longer intervals. Each week, schedules are maintained to minimize wait times, with updates provided by the dispatcher if needed. The run times reflect peak hours and late-night gaps, so check the latest times before you head out.

For groups, consider a group pass or multiple single tickets; each rider must have a valid ticket, simplifying boarding. If you need extra help, ask the driver or dispatcher on the curb – assist is available for luggage and seating. Ride-sharing remains an option to reach specific hotels or rooms, offering a door-to-door alternative when you prefer it.

Downtown stops cluster near Central Station and Berri-UQAM, so arrival is straightforward for most visitors. After arrival, locate the official pickup or exit signs to reach taxi stands, ride-sharing pickup points, or the next transit leg. Regardless of your final plan, the Express Bus route provides a reliable and cost-effective start to your trip.

Ticketing and Payment Options for the Airport Bus

Buy your ticket online in advance to breeze through the airport terminal and arrive fast. This short step saves time and gives you a digital ticket you can show on arrival, to continue travel without delays.

Ticketing channels and advance purchase

Online advance purchase offers the best value. Buy via the official airport bus operator site or mobile app, and receive a digital ticket with a scannable QR code. You can use it at the airport terminal stops and on the route, with no need to queue, allowing a royal start to your trip. This unique option reduces wait times and is ideal if you travel during peak hours.

At the airport, vending machines near arrivals or a dedicated terminal counter provide tickets. Both options support cash or card payments and deliver a quick path to the bus, with frequency listed clearly so you know when to expect the next ride. The route takes you from the airport straight toward the heart of downtown, including a stop near the saint-jaques area for easy access to central points.

No license is required to ride the airport bus, and whether you travel alone or with others, advance purchase keeps things simple. Stops cover the heart of downtown and key points along the saint-jaques corridor, so you can arrive at your preferred destination with minimal transfers.

Payment methods on board and at the airport

On board, you can pay with cash (exact change) or with a contactless card, allowing fast boarding. If you hold an OPUS card, you can load funds in advance and use it at the bus reader. Many travelers also use compatible mobile wallets where accepted, facilitating quick, professional payments. The ride typically takes about 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic and stops along the line.

For door-to-door travel, Uber or taxi from the terminal are options, but the airport bus offers the best value for travel between the airport and downtown. With frequency reliably listed and stops mapped to major hubs, you can choose the option that fits your schedule and continue your plans with minimal delay while arriving at your destination in the heart of Montreal.

Estimated Travel Time and Bus Frequency to Downtown Montreal

For a direct, reliable arrival to the heart of Montreal, jump on the 747 Express from Montréal-Trudeau. It usually delivers you to downtown in about 40–60 minutes, depending on speed and traffic along the between-airport corridor. Fares are flat for a single ride and typically around CAD 10–15; payment options include cash and contactless or a valid transit pass. The flat-floor vehicles make it easy for travellers arriving with left luggage, and the drop-off points cluster near major downtown places, giving you a smooth arrival into the city core.

Hours of operation span most of the day, and the frequency is convenient for travellers arriving at any hour. During peak times, buses run every 15–20 minutes; off-peak intervals sit around 20–30 minutes; late night and early morning see longer gaps, up to an hour. Elliott, a first-time traveller, notes that this route offers predictable schedules and straightforward transfer from the airport into the heart of Montreal. The service connects into central Montreal, offering easy options for visitors to explore other neighborhoods without a car.

Other options exist, but the 747 remains the best first step for most visitors. If you plan to drive into the city, prepare for a license check and parking restrictions. The process of using the bus is simple: board at the terminal, hold your transfer, and head into the downtown area. For visitors who want to explore more, bus connections offer a flexible way to move between various districts without a car. The drop-off and transfer points near key places in the downtown area help you start your day ready to explore.

Time of day	Estimated travel time (YUL to downtown)	Frequency (buses per hour)	참고
Peak hours (roughly 6:00–9:00 and 16:00–18:00)	40–50분	3–4	Best balance of speed and reliability
Midday	45–60 minutes	3–4	Traffic can affect speed
Evening	50–70분	2–3	Service continues; delays possible
Late night	60–90 minutes	1	Overnight service is limited

Driving from the Airport to Downtown: Routes, Time, and Toll Considerations

Recommendation: Take the 20 East corridor to downtown via the Champlain Bridge for the shortest full drive in morning rush; you’ll reach downtown in about 25–40 minutes, with a single, non-stop highway segment and easy drop-off at major hotels or shopping districts.

Routes to reach downtown

• Route A – 20 East to Champlain Bridge: the most direct option for speed, especially in clear morning traffic. Reach downtown around the Bonaventure or René-Lévesque areas, then slide onto a boulevard you know (St-Laurent, Peel, or Saint-Catherine) for hotel drop-offs.
• Route B – 520 Express to the city center: use the airport expressway to connect to central arteries and cut across toward Boulevard Saint-Laurent and downtown hotels. This route often avoids the heaviest knots on the 20 during peak times and is a reliable alternative when mornings are busy.
• Route C – 40 East corridor to central districts: travels through diverse neighborhoods and delivers you to East Montreal ramps that feed into central arteries like Saint-Laurent and Saint-Urbain. Time varies with traffic, but it can be convenient if you plan to visit specific downtown spots or shops along Rue Sainte-Catherine and Boulevard de Maisonneuve.

Time patterns and planning tips

1. Morning: full drive typically 25–45 minutes on Route A when traffic is moderate; 40–60 minutes if heavy congestion hits the Champlain Bridge approach. Route B or C can add 5–15 minutes but may save time during peak jams on Route A.
2. Midday: expect 25–40 minutes on most days, as traffic thins on expressways and main downtown corridors.
3. Evening: allow 35–70 minutes if commuter volumes spike; choosing Route B or C can help you bypass the worst delays.

Toll considerations and practicalities

• Bridges outside the island, such as the Champlain crossing, may involve tolls. Prices vary by vehicle type and payment method; plan CAD 6–8 for a standard car on current schemes, but verify rates before you travel.
• Most tolls in this area are electronic. If you rent a car, confirm toll coverage with the provider to avoid unexpected charges; a ticket or license-plate notice may appear in billing records if a transponder isn’t linked to your account.
• American travellers with rental cars should note toll policies for cross-border trips and ensure your plan covers tolls charged after your visit; many renters offer prepaid options or daily caps.
• To minimize surprises, you can choose a route that avoids major tolled crossings, but be aware that total travel time may increase and you’ll also miss a flat, direct link to downtown.

Drop-off points and downtown access

• Downtown drop-offs cluster around the central business district along René-Lévesque, Peel, and Crescent Streets, near major hotels and shopping areas. If you’re visiting morning shops or planning a quick hotel stay, drop-off near Boulevard Saint-Laurent or Rue Saint-Urbain offers convenient access to both transit and foot traffic.
• Parking options: consider hotel garages or public lots near shopping boulevards; many offer flat-rate morning-to-evening rates, which can simplify budgeting during a short visit.
• Transit integration: if you’re continuing with transit, the transfer point from car to metro is straightforward at major downtown stations, and many hotels provide shuttle schedules or valet services to help you manage the full day.

What to plan for when visiting downtown

• Unique routes, which shift with construction or events, can reduce travel time in the morning. If you’re visiting for shopping, you’ll find diverse options along Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Sainte-Catherine Street, and surrounding boulevards.
• Traffic patterns vary by day; mornings that start early tend to be smoother, while late mornings can see a peak around popular drop-off points near hotels and business centers.
• Tickets and receipts: retain toll receipts or electronic confirmations for expense reporting if you’re traveling for business or planning a longer stay with multiple transfers.

Bottom line for planning purposes

Whether you aim for speed or a relaxed approach, driving from the airport to downtown offers multiple routes with solid options for hotel drop-offs, shopping stops, and visiting mornings-only scenes. By checking tolls in advance, identifying a preferred point of reach into downtown, and aligning your plan with morning traffic, you’ll travel efficiently and arrive ready to start your day.

Parking, Car Rental, and Pickup at the Airport

Park in the short-term lot closest to the terminal for the fastest exit and the most comfortable pickup; this option is non-stop from the arrivals area to the rental desks, and you can reach the baggage claim with minimal walking.

Parking options and rates

From the arrivals zone, the short-term lot is usually the easiest, with quick access to the terminal. Rough estimates put short-term rates at CAD 6–8 per hour, with a daily max around CAD 40–50. For longer stays, long-term lots offer lower daily rates, typically CAD 20–30, and there are various options for group bookings. Look for signs toward P1, P2, and the rental zone; vending machines accept cards for fast payment. If you need directions toward the area near saint-jaques, follow the exit signs to the pickup plaza. Rates and hours vary throughout the year, so check the current board on arrival. This setup serves passenger traffic and visitors from outside the city, with spaces that help you stay comfortable during busy times.

Car rental desks and pickup flow

Rental desks are in the arrivals area; you can choose from major brands and which type of vehicle fits your trip–compact for streets, midsize for comfort, SUV for a group, or van for larger crews. Pre-booking is recommended to lock the current fare and ensure the best deal, including basic coverage. After you finish the paperwork, proceed to the car lot via a short walk or a dedicated shuttle, depending on the brand. The professional staff guide you to your car, and the pickup flow is clear across the heart of the terminal complex. If you return the car, use the same lot and follow the posted directions to the exit; the process runs throughout peak times with a dedicated lane in many cases. For pickups, counters are clearly marked, and vending machines nearby offer snacks or drinks if you need a quick refresh before driving into the city. A typical drive from the airport to downtown Montreal takes about 20–40 minutes, depending on traffic, with the fastest routes via major streets and highways that connect to the city’s streets.

Alternative Ground Transport: Taxis, Rideshare, and Private Transfers to Downtown

Book a private transfer in advance if you want a fixed price and a driver who meets you in the arrivals hall. This option offers a fast, predictable start to your time in the citys center. A taxi from the airport to downtown typically costs CAD 40–60, depending on traffic and which terminal you exit. Outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 you’ll find the taxi line; their vehicles depart every few minutes. Most accept credit cards, and a printed or emailed receipt is common. You can pay with the in-car machine or via the provider’s website, and you may receive tickets or a digital confirmation.

Taxis: Fully licensed fleets line up outside each terminal. Payment by credit card and cash is usually accepted, and a receipt is provided through the in-car machine or mailed after the ride. A downtown trip runs CAD 40–60 and takes roughly 25–45 minutes, depending on traffic. For groups or travelling with lots of luggage, consider a larger vehicle or minivan; you’ll reduce the per-person cost and stay comfortable.

Rideshare: Open the app, head to the arrivals curb set aside for pickups, and set downtown as your destination. You can compare live estimates here and on the provider’s website. Prices will mirror taxi fares but can surge during busy periods; plan for a higher cost at peak times. Vehicles range from sedans to SUVs, so a single rider or a small group can choose what fits. Most services accept credit, and you’ll pay in-app with a receipt sent to your device. If you travel with others, sharing a ride can cut costs; groups of four or more often opt for a larger vehicle. Travelling with kids or extra luggage? Rideshare options with larger spaces are usually available.

Private transfers: Private-transfer options with elliott-affiliated operators give you a meet-and-greet, a fixed price, and a driver who helps with bags. Vehicles range from sedans to vans; you can plan between terminals and downtown in a single booking. Tickets or digital confirmations are issued, and payment is usually by credit card. If you have unique needs or a tight timetable, this option usually delivers the most predictable start to your day; you’ll depart the airport with a driver who knows your preferred route and can adjust for traffic, ensuring a fast ride into the citys core.

Tips for choosing and booking

Compare options between taxi, rideshare, and private transfers the moment you land. Use the airport’s information desk or the providers’ websites to confirm prices, pickup points, and wait times. If you’re travelling with a group, a private van can save time and money; you’ll have more space and can settle on a single payment. For the lowest cost, consider taking the Metro/Subway (metrosubway) from a central station after a quick ride from the airport, then continue on the citys public transit network. Always have a backup plan in case of delays, and keep your phone charged to access the websites and apps here for live updates.