What is the best way to get around Montreal?

Montreal is a large city with exciting activities and attractions scattered throughout. This means it can be hard to find the best way to get around this charming city. With the right transportation options, you can easily traverse the different boroughs, historic sites, and recreational areas without a headache.

Public transit is the most convenient option for many people as it is relatively affordable, relatively reliable, and can get you anywhere you need to go in the city. The Societe de Transport de Montreal (STM) operates three metro (subway) lines, three tramways, and over 150 bus lines that travel the city. Navigating the city with an unlimited access pass (all day or week) can be an inexpensive and user friendly way to get around.

If you are trying to get around cheaply, there are some shared-ride options available, too. Uber and Lyft are both operating in Montreal, but Taxishare is also an option for those looking for a more affordable and eco-friendly ride. Taxishare is similar to Uber and Lyft, but with larger vehicle sizes and cheaper fares. The cost difference between Taxishare and one of the more popular transportation apps is substantial when it comes to long trips.

If you prefer the traditional method of sightseeing, bicycles are the way to go. Bixi is the bike-sharing service in Montreal. It is one of the largest public bike-sharing systems in North America that has over 6,000 bikes and 520 stations throughout the city.

Overall, public transit, rideshares, and bikes are all great options for getting around Montreal; some are more expensive than others but they are all efficient, reliable ways to move around the city in safety. With each of these methods you can conveniently reach your destination on time and avoid the hassle of finding parking and navigating busy traffic.

Whether you decide to take a Bixi, taxi-share, metro, or Uber— each one offers something unique for you to experience within Montreal. Each form of transportation provides a pleasant way for you to explore the city with ease. Trying different methods of transportation can make your stay in Montreal even more enjoyable as you get to see different parts of the city. In the end, it might come down to personal preference as you pick which option works best for your travel needs.

An Insider’s Guide to Getting Around Montreal

Montreal is a vibrant city situated in the province of Quebec, Canada. Known for its unique architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Montreal attracts visitors from around the world. The city’s combination of old-world charm and modernity makes it a fantastic place to explore. Navigating Montreal is relatively easy due to its well-connected public transportation system. In this insider’s guide, we will cover the best ways to get around Montreal, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Getting Around Montreal

Montreal has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and metro lines. The STM (Société de Transport de Montréal) operates the buses and metro lines, making Montreal one of the least car-dependent cities in North America. The STM has a day pass that provides unlimited access to local buses and the metro system. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available in Montreal.

Local Attractions

Montreal is home to many famous landmarks, museums, and attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists. The following are some must-visit places in Montreal:

– Old Montreal: The historic district of Montreal, featuring the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, which was completed in 1829.

– Mount Royal Park: The largest green space in Montreal, featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and excellent city views.

– Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: One of the largest museums in Canada, featuring works from artists like Rembrandt, El Greco, and Picasso.

– La Ronde: A Six Flags amusement park in Montreal, featuring thrilling roller coasters and other attractions.

Dining Spots

Montreal is known for its cuisine, which is a blend of French and Canadian influences. The following are some must-visit dining spots in Montreal:

– Saint Hubert Rotisserie: A popular chain of rotisserie chicken restaurants, serving up delicious and hearty meals.

– Au Pied de Cochon: A cozy restaurant serving up classic French Canadian dishes like foie gras poutine and wild game terrine.

– Schwartz’s Deli: A classic Jewish deli, famous for its Montreal smoked meat sandwiches.

– Le Club Chasse et Pêche: A high-end restaurant serving up creative dishes made from local ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

Montreal is a cultural melting pot, with a blend of French, English, and Canadian influences. The city is home to many art galleries, museums, and festivals. The following are some cultural experiences to try in Montreal:

– Montreal Jazz Festival: An annual summer music festival, featuring over 500 concerts and free outdoor shows.

– La Grande Roue de Montréal: A giant Ferris wheel in the Old Port of Montreal, offering stunning views of the city.

– The Montreal Botanical Garden: One of the largest botanical gardens in the world, featuring over 20,000 plant species.

Local History

Montreal has a rich history, dating back to its foundation in the 17th century. The city is home to many historic landmarks and museums. The following are some must-visit historical sites in Montreal:

– Pointe-à-Callière Museum: A museum built on the site of Montreal’s birthplace, showcasing the city’s history and archaeology.

– Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel: A historic chapel in Old Montreal, featuring an impressive collection of religious art.

– Château Ramezay: A historic museum built-in 1705, featuring antique furniture and artifacts from the colonial era.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those seeking a unique experience while in Montreal, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path suggestions to explore. Here are some intriguing off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Biosphere: A geodesic dome built for the 1967 Montreal World Expo transformed into an environmental museum.

– Grévin Museum: A wax museum featuring over 120 wax figures of famous people from around the world.

– Cité Mémoire: An interactive multimedia experience projected on the walls and streets of Old Montreal, showcasing the city’s history and culture.

Conclusion

Montreal is an incredible city with plenty of sights to see and attractions to explore. With its well-connected public transportation system, getting around Montreal is easy. From local dining spots to cultural experiences, Montreal has something for everyone. The above insider’s guide should help you plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful Canadian city.