How to get from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Longueuil

Quick Answer

The best overall way to get from Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL) to downtown Longueuil is a combination of the 747 Express Bus to Bonaventure Metro Station, then the Montréal Metro (Yellow Line) to Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke station. This takes 45-70 minutes and costs only $11.00 CAD (bus fare includes 24-hour metro/bus access). For direct, door-to-door service, a taxi or Uber costs $55-$75 CAD and takes 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Option 1: Public Transit (747 Bus + Metro) – The Budget-Friendly Choice

Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details

Step 1: Find and Board the 747 Express Bus

• Location: Bus stops are located right outside the Arrivals level of the airport. Follow the clearly marked “Bus/Public Transit” signs.
• Frequency: Runs 24/7, with service every 15-20 minutes during the day and every 30-60 minutes late at night.
• Payment:
  • Recommended: Purchase a 24-hour transit pass ($11.00) from the ticket machine at the bus stop. This covers your bus ride AND all metro/bus trips for the next 24 hours.
  • You can also pay a single fare ($11.00) in exact change (coins) to the driver.
  • Contactless credit card payments are now available on STM buses and at metro gates.

Step 2: Ride to Bonaventure Metro Station (~25-45 mins)

• The bus travels on the dedicated highway lane, bypassing regular traffic.
• Get off at the final stop, “Gare Bonaventure”. The bus announces stops clearly.

Step 3: Transfer to the Yellow Line Metro (~10-15 mins)

• From the Bonaventure bus terminal, follow signs for the “Métro” (subway).
• Take the Yellow Line (Direction: Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke).
• It’s a direct, 3-stop ride. Disembark at the terminus station, “Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke”.

Pros, Cons & Who It's For

• 👍 Pros: Extremely cheap ($11 for 24 hours of travel); operates 24/7; avoids traffic; eco-friendly.
• 👎 Cons: Not ideal with heavy or multiple bags; requires a transfer; can be crowded during rush hour.
• ✅ Best for: Solo travelers, couples, backpackers, and anyone on a tight budget.

Option 2: Taxi & Rideshare (Uber, Lyft) – The Direct & Convenient Choice

For a direct, door-to-door journey without handling your luggage, taxis and rideshares are the most convenient options from YUL to Longueuil.

Taxis: Official Airport Taxis

• Pick-up: Official taxi ranks are located outside the Arrivals level. Queue system managed by an attendant.
• Fare: Flat rate to the South Shore (including Longueuil) is approximately $55 - $75 CAD, depending on your exact destination and traffic. Confirm the approximate fare with the driver before departing.
• Payment: Cash, credit, and debit cards are widely accepted.
• Travel Time: 25-40 minutes.

Rideshare: Uber & Lyft

• Pick-up: Designated rideshare pick-up zones are at the airport. Follow signs for “Rideshare” or use the app’s instructions after booking.
• Fare: Dynamic pricing. Typically $45 - $70 CAD for UberX or Lyft Standard. Prices surge during peak hours, bad weather, and high demand.
• Advantage: Upfront pricing and cashless payment via the app.

Deep-Dive Comparison & Tips

Taxi vs. Rideshare at YUL: Taxis offer guaranteed availability and a fixed queue. Rideshares might be cheaper off-peak but require a wait and reliable data. During early morning or late-night arrivals, taxis are often the more reliable and similarly priced choice.

Hidden Consideration – Tolls: The route may involve crossing the Champlain Bridge. The toll ($3.75 for passenger vehicles, south shore direction only) is usually included in the quoted flat taxi fare or rideshare price, but it’s wise to confirm.

Option 3: Private & Luxury Transfers – For Special Occasions

Pre-booked private transfers offer a premium, stress-free experience with a meet-and-greet service.

• Service: Your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name.
• Vehicle: Options range from sedans to luxury cars, SUVs, and vans for groups.
• Cost: Significantly higher, starting from $90 - $150+ CAD one-way.
• Booking: Must be arranged in advance through companies like Airways Transit or global platforms like Viator.
• ✅ Best for: Business travelers, families with young children or lots of luggage, group travel, or those seeking maximum comfort and convenience.

Cost & Time Comparison: YUL to Longueuil

Use this table to quickly compare all your options at a glance.

*Rideshare prices fluctuate with demand.

Our Verdict: The 747 Bus + Metro combo is the cheapest. A taxi or Uber is the fastest and most convenient for most travelers, offering the best balance of speed and ease, especially with luggage.

Traveler Tips & Insider Advice for Your Trip

1. Navigating the Metro System Like a Pro

• STM App is Key: Download the official “STM” app for real-time bus/metro schedules, service alerts, and a trip planner.
• Accessibility: Most metro stations, including Longueuil, have elevators. The 747 buses are wheelchair-accessible. Check the STM website for detailed accessibility info.

2. Luggage Strategy & Handling

• On Public Transit: Use the luggage racks on the 747 bus. In the metro, avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) if you have large suitcases.
• Left Luggage at YUL: If you have a long layover or want to explore before heading to Longueuil, baggage storage is available at YUL for a daily fee.

3. Money & Connectivity

• Get Canadian Dollars: While cards are widely accepted, having some CAD cash ($20-$40) is useful for transit tickets (if the machine is card-only) or small tips.
• Free Airport Wi-Fi: Connect to “YUL WiFi” to book your rideshare or check schedules upon arrival.

4. Seasonal & Time-Based Considerations

• Winter Travel (Dec-Mar): Allow significant extra time. Snow can delay both road and public transit. Taxis become a more valuable, warm option.
• Late-Night Arrivals (After 1 AM): The 747 bus runs all night but infrequently. For safety and speed, a taxi is strongly recommended for late-night arrivals.

FAQs: Getting from Montreal Airport to Longueuil