Montreal Metro Guide for Visitors: Passes, Tours & Tips
The Montreal metro is the fastest way to get around the city. Four lines connect the airport bus, Old Montreal, downtown, the Plateau, and the Olympic Park. A single OPUS card covers the metro, the REM, and exo commuter trains in Zone A, so one tap gets you everywhere on the island. Here is what to sort out before you arrive.
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Canadian roaming charges are high. An eSIM installs on your phone before you fly and activates the moment you land, so you can open maps, book rides, or contact your accommodation before leaving the terminal.
Get a Canada eSIM→Getting from YUL Airport to downtown
The 747 express bus runs 24 hours a day between the airport and Berri-UQAM metro station. A $11.25 ticket covers the bus and a full 24 hours on the metro. Taxis charge a flat rate of $49.45 (daytime) or $56.70 (overnight). Pre-booked private transfers from about $101 meet you at arrivals.
Full airport guide with times, prices, and booking→Choosing the right transit pass
Buy an OPUS card ($6, reusable) at any metro station ticket machine and load whichever pass fits your visit. Contactless payment (credit or debit tap) also works at every turnstile if you prefer not to buy a card.
| Pass | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Single trip | $3.75 | One-off journey, Zone A |
| 1-day pass | $11.25 | Airport day or a full day exploring |
| Weekly pass (Mon–Sun) | $29 | Stays of 4+ days |
| Monthly pass | $94 | Long stays or work trips |
Passes cover the STM metro and buses, the REM, and exo trains in Zone A. Transfers between these networks are included within a 120-minute window.
The metro puts Old Montreal, the Latin Quarter, the Plateau, Mount Royal, the Olympic Park, and Jean-Drapeau Island all within a short walk of a station. Book walking tours, bike tours, and guided experiences through GetYourGuide.
Browse Montreal activities→Where to stay
Most visitors stay along the Green and Orange lines in the downtown core, Old Montreal, or the Plateau. Use the map to compare live hotel prices across the city.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an OPUS card as a tourist in Montreal?
Not strictly. Contactless credit or debit payment works at every metro turnstile and bus reader. An OPUS card is useful if you want a weekly pass or plan many short trips, since individual taps at $3.75 can add up.
How much does a day pass cost for the Montreal metro?
A 1-day pass costs $11.25 and covers unlimited travel on the STM metro, buses, the REM, and exo trains in Zone A for 24 hours.
Is the Montreal metro safe for tourists?
Yes. The metro is generally safe at all hours. Berri-UQAM and other large interchange stations are busy even late at night. Standard urban precautions apply.
Does the Montreal metro go to the airport?
The metro does not reach YUL directly. Take the 747 express bus from the airport to Lionel-Groulx or Berri-UQAM stations, then transfer to the metro. The REM airport station is under construction and expected around 2027.
What is the best neighbourhood to stay in Montreal for tourists?
Downtown (Green and Orange lines) is the most central and hotel-dense. Old Montreal is quieter and walkable to the waterfront. The Plateau (Mont-Royal station) is best for restaurants, cafes, and nightlife.