Transportation in Montreal
Most of Montreal is built on an island in the mighty St Lawrence River but the greater metropolitan area fans out to other islands and the shores. Downtown is where you find much of the financial centre. Montrealers base directions on the river, not actual compass directions, so though largely west of downtown, Mount Royal is considered to be to the north. To the west are the mansions of Westmount. On the mountain's flank, northeast of downtown, is the trendy Plateau area; further north still is celebrated Little Italy. Walking east from downtown, you pass through Chinatown and the Latin Quarter on the way to the gay area of the Village; the Olympic Park lies much further east. Southeast is Old Montreal and the Old Port.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Métro
Montreal's extensive underground Métro system connects the whole city.
Taxi
Montreal cabbies will get you where you want to go quickly, although they can't turn right at traffic lights because it's against the law. Most drivers speak French or English, though only some speak both fluently.
Bus
Public buses have got the city covered, although they struggle in rush hour. After the Métro shuts down, night buses ply certain routes.
Foot
Walking in the city centre area will take you from downtown to Mont Royal, the Plateau, the Village, Chinatown, Old Montreal and the Old Port.
Boat
Cruise on the St Lawrence River and watch the city's sparkling skyline come alive during the evening. In summer, ferries link the Old Port to the islands of Parc Jean-Drapeau.
Rent your car
Montreal is mostly laid out on a grid system, so it’s fairly easy to navigate your way to downtown attractions. Parking is often free after 9pm on weekdays and 6pm at weekends. Note that it’s illegal to turn right on a red light and road signs are in French.
Transportation Tips
If you're using public transit a lot, it's worth buying a one-day Tourist Card or a three-day card. Otherwise, buying a card loaded with one to six trips may work out cheaper.
