Quick Answer
Best Overall Way: For most travelers, the STM 747 Express Bus to Lionel-Groulx metro station, then transferring to the Metro, offers the best balance of cost and reliability. Total time: ~50-70 minutes. Total cost: ~$11.50 CAD.
Fastest Way: A taxi or Uber/Lyft is the fastest door-to-door option, taking 20-40 minutes (traffic dependent) for a fixed fare of $41+.
Cheapest Way: The STM 747 Bus + Metro combo at $11.50 is the clear budget winner.
1. 747 Airport Express Bus (The Official & Frequent Option)
Operated by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), the 747 Express Bus is the airport's dedicated, high-frequency public transit link. It's a reliable workhorse for budget-conscious and solo travelers.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | YUL Airport ↔ Downtown (Gare d'autocars de Montréal & Berri-UQAM). Key Stop for Old Montreal: Transfer at Lionel-Groulx Metro Station. |
| Operating Hours | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (reduced frequency overnight). |
| Frequency | Every 10-20 minutes during the day, every 30-60 minutes overnight. |
| Fare (2024) | $11.50 (CAD). This is a 24-hour unlimited pass for the STM network (buses and metro). Purchase at airport machines (Arrivals level) or with exact change on bus. |
| Travel Time to Downtown | 45-70 minutes (highly traffic-dependent). |
| Luggage | Dedicated luggage racks. Fine for 1-2 suitcases per person. |
Step-by-Step to Old Montreal via 747 Bus
- Exit baggage claim on the Arrivals Level.
- Follow signs for "747 Express Bus". Buy your $11.50 ticket from the automated kiosks.
- Board the bus. Inform the driver you're going to "Lionel-Groulx" for Old Montreal.
- Ride for ~35-50 minutes. Get off at the "Lionel-Groulx" bus stop/metro station.
- Enter the metro station, take the Orange Line (direction Montmorency) for 2 stops to Place-d'Armes.
- Exit at Place-d'Armes station – you are now in the heart of Old Montreal.
Pros: Very cheap (includes metro), 24/7 service, frequent, no booking needed.
Cons: Can be slow in traffic, may be crowded, less ideal with heavy luggage or for groups.
2. Alternative Public Transit Combination (Bus + Metro)
For those arriving during the day and wanting a slightly more localized route, using regular STM buses (not the 747) is an option, though it involves a transfer.
- Option A (via 204/209 Bus & Metro): Take bus 204 or 209 from the airport to the Dorval Train Station (Gare Dorval). Transfer to the Vaudreuil-Hudson commuter train line to Lucien-L'Allier station, then walk or take metro to Old Montreal. This is complex and timing-dependent; only recommended for transit enthusiasts.
- General Advice: For simplicity and value, the 747 bus + metro combo is superior for nearly all tourists. Use the official STM Trip Planner for real-time schedules.
4. Private & Shared Shuttle Transfers (Pre-Booked Comfort)
For guaranteed service, meet-and-greet, or traveling in a larger group, pre-booking a transfer is excellent.
- Private Car/Van Service: Companies like AirMél or Limocar offer sedans, SUVs, and vans. A driver meets you in arrivals with a sign. Cost: ~$65-$120+ depending on vehicle size and service level.
- Shared Ride Shuttles: Less common from YUL than other airports, but services like SkyShuttle may offer shared van rides to downtown hotels. You may share with other passengers, making stops. Cost: ~$25-$35 per person. Must book in advance.
Pros: Pre-paid, no haggling, professional service, ideal for groups/business travel.
Cons: Most expensive, requires advance planning.
5. Rental Car & Driving (For Exploring Beyond)
Renting a car at YUL is only recommended if you plan to explore regions outside Montreal (Laurentians, Eastern Townships, Quebec City). For staying in Old Montreal, a car is a liability due to:
- Expensive Parking: Hotel parking can cost $30-$50+ per night. Public lots are also pricey.
- Narrow, Congested Streets: Old Montreal's streets are historic, often one-way, and crowded with pedestrians.
- Excellent Public Transit: Montreal's metro and bus system makes getting around the core very easy.
If You Do Rent: Major rental agencies are located in the Parking Garage, a short walk from the terminal. Follow signs. The drive to Old Montreal takes 20-40 minutes via Autoroute 20 or 520 East.
6. Cost & Time Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Travel Time to Old Montreal | Best For | Convenience / Hassle Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 747 Bus + Metro | $11.50 (24-hr pass) | 50 - 70 mins | Budget travelers, solo travelers, light packers | Medium (1 transfer, public transit) |
| Taxi (Fixed Rate) | $41.00 + tip | 20 - 40 mins | Families, groups, those with heavy luggage, late arrivals | High (Door-to-door) |
| Uber / Lyft | $35 - $55 | 20 - 40 mins | Tech-savvy travelers, off-peak arrivals | High (Door-to-door, app-based) |
| Private Transfer | $65 - $120+ | 25 - 45 mins | Groups, business travel, luxury seekers | Very High (Pre-booked, meet & greet) |
| Rental Car | $50 - $100/day + gas + expensive parking | 20 - 40 mins | Travelers exploring outside Montreal extensively | Low for city stay, High for region |
Verdict: For the best value, choose the 747 Bus+Metro. For the best convenience, choose a Taxi or Rideshare.
7. Traveler Tips & Insider Insights
Luggage Strategy
If you have large suitcases and are using the 747 bus, try to board at the first airport stop (outside Arrivals) for best luggage rack access. Consider a taxi if you have more than one large bag per person.
Money & Payment
- 747 Bus Tickets: Machines accept credit/debit cards. Have cash if buying on board.
- STM Metro: The $11.50 ticket from the airport machines works for 24 hours. Otherwise, single rides are $3.75.
- Taxis: All accept credit cards, but it's polite to ask "Do you take card?" before getting in.
Language & Communication
French is the official language, but in the airport and tourist areas like Old Montreal, English is widely understood. A polite "Bonjour" followed by English is perfectly acceptable.
Arriving During Major Events
During festivals (Jazz Fest, F1 Grand Prix) or major conferences, traffic into downtown can be severe. Allow extra time (especially for taxis/buses) or consider the metro portion of the 747 route as it bypasses street traffic.
Wi-Fi & Connectivity
YUL offers free Wi-Fi. Download your hotel address and a map of Old Montreal offline. Having data on your phone is highly useful for using Uber/Lyft or Google Maps for transit directions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cheapest way to get from YUL Airport to Old Montreal?
The cheapest option is the STM 747 Express Bus combined with the Montreal Metro. A single fare costs $11.50 (valid for 24 hours on buses and metro) and takes about 50-70 minutes. This is significantly cheaper than a taxi or Uber.
Is there a direct train from YUL Airport to downtown Montreal?
No, there is currently no direct train or rail link (like a commuter train or light rail) from Montréal-Trudeau Airport to the city center. The primary public transit option is the bus. However, the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) light rail system is under development and will eventually connect the airport to downtown, with an anticipated opening in the coming years.
How much is a taxi from YUL to Old Montreal and how long does it take?
A fixed-rate taxi fare from YUL to downtown Montreal (including Old Montreal) is $41.00 (CAD). The journey typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending heavily on traffic. It's the most convenient door-to-door option, especially with lots of luggage or late at night.
Can I use Uber or Lyft at YUL Airport?
Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate at YUL. The pick-up area is located on the Arrivals level. Fares are dynamic but are generally comparable to or slightly cheaper than taxis during non-peak times. Expect to pay $35-$55 for a trip to Old Montreal.
What is the best way if I have a lot of luggage?
For travelers with multiple or heavy bags, a taxi, Uber/Lyft, or a pre-booked private transfer is highly recommended. The 747 bus, while cheap, can be crowded and has limited luggage space. Navigating metro stations with stairs and turnstiles with large suitcases is challenging.
How do I get from YUL to Old Montreal late at night or very early in the morning?
The STM 747 Express Bus operates 24/7, making it the most reliable and affordable option for late-night/early-morning arrivals. Taxis and ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) are also available 24 hours a day. Pre-booking a private car service guarantees a ride during off-hours.
Are there any shuttle services from YUL Airport to hotels in Old Montreal?
There is no dedicated hotel shuttle bus serving multiple hotels directly from YUL. Some upscale hotels may offer private shuttle services for guests (contact your hotel directly). The standard shared-ride shuttle services that operate at many airports are not a major provider at YUL; taxis and ride-shares fill this role.
Where exactly in Old Montreal does the 747 Bus drop me off?
The 747 bus does not enter the narrow streets of Old Montreal itself. Its final downtown stop is at the corner of Rue Berri and René-Lévesque Blvd, near the Berri-UQAM metro station. From there, you must take the Metro's Orange Line (direction Côte-Vertu) two stops to Place-d'Armes or Champ-de-Mars stations, which are in the heart of Old Montreal.