Quick Answer
The best way for most travelers is the STM 747 Express Bus + Metro combo, balancing cost and convenience. The fastest way is a taxi or Uber (20-30 min, light traffic). The cheapest way is the 747 Bus alone ($11 CAD). Total transit time via bus/metro is 45-75 minutes, while a direct taxi costs $40-$50 CAD.
Public Transit: 747 Express Bus & Montreal Metro
This is the official and most cost-effective public transit route recommended by ADM Aéroports de Montréal. It involves a two-step process but is efficient and runs 24/7.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find the 747 Bus Stop: Exit the Arrivals level of the terminal. Follow clear signs for "Public Transit / 747". Stops are located on the median outside doors 20, 21, 23, and 24.
- Pay Your Fare:
- Fare: $11 CAD (as of 2023).
- Payment Methods: Exact cash (coins & bills), a pre-purchased ticket from the STM ticket booth in Arrivals, or a loaded OPUS card/STM transit pass.
- Key Benefit: The fare includes unlimited transfers on the STM bus and metro network for 24 hours from validation.
- Take the 747 Bus to a Metro Hub:
- Primary Route: Take the bus to Lionel-Groulx station (approx. 25-45 min).
- Alternative Route: Some buses go to Berri-UQAM station (approx. 45-60 min). Check the bus destination sign.
- Transfer to the Metro:
- At Lionel-Groulx, take the Orange Line (direction Montmorency) for 4 stops to Square-Victoria–OACI station (approx. 10 min).
- At Berri-UQAM, take the Orange Line (direction Côte-Vertu) for 1 stop to Square-Victoria–OACI.
Pros: Very cheap, 24/7 service, unlimited transfers for 24h, no traffic dependency on the metro leg.
Cons: Multiple steps with luggage, bus segment subject to road traffic, can be crowded during peak times.
Taxi, Uber & Ride-Sharing Services
For a direct, door-to-door experience, taxis and app-based rides are the most straightforward option.
Taxis
Official airport taxis are available at designated ranks outside the Arrivals level. They operate on a fixed fare to downtown zones.
| Destination Zone | Fixed Fare (CAD) | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Montreal (incl. Square Victoria) | $41.00 | 20-45 min |
Source: ADM - Taxis & Limousines
Tip: Ensure the meter is set to the fixed rate ("Tarif Spécial Aéroport") when you depart.
Uber & Lyft
Designated pick-up areas for ride-sharing are available. Fares are variable and subject to surge pricing during bad weather, peak hours, or high demand.
- Typical Fare Range: $35 - $55 CAD to downtown.
- Pick-up: Follow signs in the terminal to the designated "Ride App" pick-up zone.
- Best For: Travelers familiar with the apps, those wanting upfront pricing (pre-surge), or small groups splitting the cost.
Private Transfers & Shared Shuttles
Ideal for groups, families with lots of luggage, or travelers seeking pre-arranged comfort.
Private Limousines & Vans
You can pre-book a private car or van through licensed airport limousine services. Drivers meet you in Arrivals with a name sign.
- Cost: $70 - $120+ CAD depending on vehicle class and company.
- Providers: Companies like Limoreau and Airport Limo Montreal are licensed by ADM.
Shared Door-to-Door Shuttles
Services like SuperShuttle (operated by Robert's) offer shared van rides.
- Cost: Starts around $20-$30 per person to downtown.
- Process: Book online or at the counter. You may make multiple stops to drop off other passengers, increasing travel time.
Renting a Car at YUL Airport
Renting a car is only recommended if you plan to explore outside Montreal. Driving and parking downtown can be expensive and challenging.
- Rental Counters: All major agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, etc.) are located on the Arrivals level.
- Driving to Downtown: Follow signs for Autoroute 20 Est (East)/Autoroute 720 (Ville-Marie). Travel time is 20-30 minutes without traffic.
- Parking Warning: Downtown hotel parking can cost $30-$50+ per day. Public street parking is limited and has strict time limits.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (CAD) | Travel Time | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 747 Bus + Metro | $11 (24h pass incl.) | 45 - 75 min | Cheapest, 24/7, unlimited transfers | Budget travelers, solo travelers, light packers |
| Taxi (Fixed Rate) | $41 (flat rate) | 20 - 45 min | Door-to-door, always available, fixed price | Convenience, groups of 2-3, bad weather, late arrival |
| Uber / Lyft | $35 - $55 | 20 - 45 min | App-based, upfront pricing (usually), cashless | Tech-savvy travelers, avoiding taxi lines |
| Shared Shuttle (e.g., SuperShuttle) | $20 - $30 /person | 45 - 90 min | Door-to-door, shared cost | Solo travelers who dislike public transit |
| Private Car Transfer | $70 - $120+ | 20 - 40 min | Luxury, meet & greet, dedicated vehicle | Families, groups, business travel, special occasions |
| Car Rental | $50+ /day + gas + parking | 20 - 40 min | Maximum flexibility for regional travel | Travelers exploring beyond Montreal city limits |
Verdict: For a balance of cost and efficiency, the 747 Bus + Metro is hard to beat. For ultimate ease, especially with luggage or after a long flight, the fixed-rate taxi offers good value and certainty.
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Handling Luggage
The 747 buses have dedicated luggage racks. However, navigating metro stations with large suitcases can involve stairs and crowds. If you have heavy bags, a taxi for the final leg from Lionel-Groulx might be worth the extra $15.
Navigating the Metro at Square-Victoria
Square-Victoria–OACI station has multiple exits. For the Square Victoria area (World Trade Centre, hotels), use the exit marked for Place du Frère-André or University Street. The underground network (RÉSO) connects directly to many downtown buildings—useful in winter or bad weather.
Buying Transit Passes
If you'll use transit extensively, consider a multi-day OPUS card pass (3-day unlimited: ~$21). You can buy and load these at the airport STM booth or at major metro stations. The 24-hour pass included with your 747 fare is an excellent start.
Peak Hour Traffic
Weekdays 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM see heavy traffic on Autoroute 20/720. During these times, the bus segment can be slow. The metro portion remains reliable. If you land during rush hour and value time over cost, a taxi/Uber using the (sometimes slower) city streets might not be faster than the bus+metro.
Winter Travel (Dec - Mar)
Snow can delay all road-based transport. The metro becomes the most reliable link. Allow extra travel time (30-50%) for any bus, taxi, or shuttle in winter conditions. Dress warmly, as you may wait outdoors for the 747 bus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cheapest way to get from YUL Airport to downtown Montreal?
The cheapest way is the STM 747 Express Bus. A single fare is $11 CAD (as of 2023), paid with exact change, a pre-purchased ticket, or a transit card. It offers a direct, budget-friendly connection to key metro stations like Lionel-Groulx and Berri-UQAM.
Is there a direct train from YUL Airport to Square Victoria?
No, there is no direct train service from Montréal-Trudeau Airport. The most common public transit route involves taking the 747 Express Bus to Lionel-Groulx Metro Station, then transferring to the Metro's Orange Line to get to Square-Victoria–OACI station.
How much is a taxi from YUL to downtown Montreal?
A flat-rate taxi fare from YUL to downtown Montreal is approximately $41 CAD (fixed rate). The metered fare is typically $40-$50 CAD. Travel time is 20-45 minutes depending on traffic. Uber and Lyft fares are comparable but can surge during peak times.
What is the fastest way to get to Square Victoria from YUL?
A taxi, Uber, or private transfer is usually the fastest door-to-door option, taking 20-30 minutes in light traffic. However, during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM), traffic can significantly increase travel time, potentially making the 747 bus + metro combo more reliable.
How long does the 747 bus take from YUL to Lionel-Groulx station?
The 747 Express Bus takes approximately 25-45 minutes to reach Lionel-Groulx Metro Station, depending on traffic. From there, it's a 10-minute ride on the Orange Line to Square-Victoria–OACI station. Total transit time is typically 45-75 minutes.
Can I use my credit card on the 747 airport bus?
No, the 747 bus fare boxes do not accept credit cards directly. You must pay with: 1) Exact cash ($11), 2) A pre-purchased fare ticket from the airport Arrivals level, or 3) A loaded OPUS card or STM transit pass. The fare includes a 24-hour unlimited bus/metro transfer.
Is there a shuttle service from YUL to downtown hotels?
There is no universal hotel shuttle service from YUL. Some high-end hotels may offer private shuttles for guests (contact your hotel directly). The main shared shuttle service, SuperShuttle, operates door-to-door shared vans, with fares starting around $20-$30 per person.
What should I do if I arrive at YUL Airport late at night?
The STM 747 bus operates 24/7, making it a reliable late-night option. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) are also available around the clock. The taxi flat-rate and availability are guaranteed, which can be safer and more convenient for solo travelers arriving after midnight.