Public Transportation
Montreal's public transportation is managed by STM.
The most popular way to get around the city is by buses, including night buses, which rarely deviate from their schedules. Fares are paid upon entry, typically through the front door, and only if you wait in line. Getting off the bus can be a bit more complicated as stops are usually not announced in advance.
If you don't alert the driver in time (there are buttons on the handrails throughout the cabin for this purpose), you might end up riding a couple of extra stops. Additionally, you have to press the stop button even if the bus has already stopped, as the doors don't open automatically.
Metropolitan
Montreal's metro system consists of 4 lines (68 stations in total) with a combined length of 65 km. Each line is identified by a different color and number. To switch between lines, you simply need to cross to the other side of the platform. The metro lines serve the northern, eastern, and central parts of the island. Montreal is also connected to the mainland in the Longueuil area via a yellow metro line with 3 stations.
The cost of public transportation in Montreal is quite affordable, especially if you opt for an OPUS card instead of paying for each trip. You can purchase an OPUS card from the driver or at subway entrances, and it costs 6 CAD. The card is convenient because it allows you to check your balance and add funds when you enter the subway. There are various ways to use the OPUS card, such as for daily, weekly, monthly, or evening passes, depending on the amount you load onto it.
You can, of course, buy a ticket for each trip, which is valid for up to three transit trips. However, when transferring to another mode of transportation, you must obtain a new ticket. For tourists visiting Montreal for the first time, these nuances may seem somewhat complicated initially. The bottom line: consider purchasing an OPUS card, which allows you to move around the city as much as you like.
Taxi
The average cost of a taxi ride in the city is 10-20 CAD, which typically includes a 2.25 CAD boarding fee, 1 CAD per kilometer, and 0.37 CAD for every minute of wait time. Tipping is optional, but if you choose to do so, it's customary to tip 10% of the total bill.
Tips for Tourists
Instead of hailing a taxi on the street, consider asking a porter to call a taxi for you over the phone. This method is often cheaper and more reliable.
