Montreal

๐Ÿš‡

Metro

Montreal's efficient and widely used subway system makes getting around the city easy and convenient.

Sections

Overview of the Montreal Metro System

  • Lines and Stations: The Metro consists of 4 lines (Green, Orange, Yellow, and Blue) with a total of 68 stations. Each line is color-coded and numbered for easy identification:
    • Green Line (Line 1): Serves the east-west axis, connecting Angrignon to Honorรฉ-Beaugrand.
    • Orange Line (Line 2): A U-shaped line connecting Cรดte-Vertu to Montmorency (in Laval).
    • Yellow Line (Line 4): A short line connecting Longueuilโ€“Universitรฉ-de-Sherbrooke (on the South Shore) to Berri-UQAM.
    • Blue Line (Line 5): Runs east-west in the northern part of the city, connecting Snowdon to Saint-Michel.
  • Frequency: Trains run frequently, with intervals of 2-10 minutes depending on the time of day.

Ticket Options and Costs

The STM offers several ticketing options to suit different needs. All tickets are valid for both the Metro and STM buses.

Ticket Types

  1. Single Fare:
    • Cost: $3.75 CAD (as of 2023).
    • Valid for one trip, including transfers within 120 minutes.
  2. 2-Trip Ticket:
    • Cost: $6.50 CAD.
    • Includes two trips with the same transfer rules.
  3. 10-Trip Ticket:
    • Cost: $34.00 CAD.
    • Ideal for frequent short-term users.
  4. 1-Day Pass:
    • Cost: $11.00 CAD.
    • Unlimited travel for 24 hours.
  5. 3-Day Pass:
    • Cost: $21.25 CAD.
    • Unlimited travel for 3 consecutive days.
  6. Weekly Pass:
    • Cost: $30.25 CAD.
    • Valid from Monday to Sunday.
  7. Monthly Pass (OPUS Card):
    • Cost: $94.00 CAD (regular fare).
    • Requires an OPUS card (rechargeable smart card).
  8. Unlimited Weekend Pass:
    • Cost: $15.75 CAD.
    • Valid from 4:00 PM Friday to 5:00 AM Monday.

Discounts

  • Reduced Fares: Available for children (6-17), students (18-25), and seniors (65+). Proof of eligibility is required.
  • Free for Children: Up to 5 children under 12 can travel for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

How to Purchase Tickets

  1. Ticket Machines:
    • Located at all Metro stations.
    • Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
    • Available in multiple languages (English, French, etc.).
  2. OPUS Card:
    • A rechargeable smart card for frequent users.
    • Purchase at Metro station ticket counters, STM service points, or authorized retailers.
    • Cost: $6.00 CAD for the card itself (non-refundable).
  3. STM Mobile App:
    • Allows you to check schedules and plan trips but does not currently support ticket purchases.
  4. Retailers:
    • Some convenience stores and pharmacies sell STM tickets and recharge OPUS cards.

Travel Procedures

  1. Entering the Metro:
    • Swipe your OPUS card or insert your ticket at the turnstile.
    • Keep your ticket handy in case of inspection.
  2. Finding Your Train:
    • Follow the color-coded signs to the correct platform.
    • Check the direction (terminus station name) to ensure you're heading the right way.
  3. On the Train:
    • Announcements are made in French, but station names are displayed on digital screens.
    • Maps are available inside the train cars and on platforms.
  4. Exiting:
    • Exit through the turnstiles at your destination station.

Operating Hours

  • Weekdays and Saturdays: Approximately 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM.
  • Sundays: Approximately 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM.
  • Holiday Hours: May vary slightly; check the STM website or app for updates.

Key Rules to Follow

  1. No Eating or Drinking: Food and beverages are not allowed on Metro trains or platforms.
  2. Priority Seating: Reserved for seniors, pregnant individuals, and those with disabilities.
  3. Bicycles: Allowed during off-peak hours (except during rush hours on weekdays).
  4. Pets: Only small pets in carriers are permitted.
  5. Noise: Keep noise levels low to respect other passengers.

Accessibility Features

  • Elevators: Available at select stations (e.g., Berri-UQAM, Lionel-Groulx, and Montmorency). Check the STM website for a full list.
  • Tactile Strips: Installed on platform edges for visually impaired passengers.
  • Audio Announcements: Announce upcoming stations.
  • Wheelchair Access: Limited to certain stations; plan your trip accordingly.

Connections to Local Attractions

The Metro system provides easy access to many of Montrealโ€™s top attractions:

  1. Old Montreal and Old Port: Take the Orange Line to Place-dโ€™Armes or Champ-de-Mars.
  2. Mount Royal Park: Take the Orange Line to Mont-Royal or Peel stations.
  3. Jean-Talon Market: Take the Orange or Blue Line to Jean-Talon station.
  4. Olympic Park and Biodome: Take the Green Line to Viau station.
  5. McGill University: Take the Green Line to McGill station.
  6. Museum of Fine Arts: Take the Green Line to Guy-Concordia station.
  7. La Ronde Amusement Park: Take the Yellow Line to Jean-Drapeau station.

Useful Tips for Navigating the Metro

  1. Download the STM App: Provides real-time schedules, trip planning, and service updates.
  2. Avoid Rush Hours: Weekday mornings (7:00-9:00 AM) and evenings (4:30-6:30 PM) can be crowded.
  3. Carry Small Change: If using ticket machines, having exact change can save time.
  4. Plan for Delays: While the Metro is reliable, occasional delays can occur.
  5. Learn Basic French Phrases: While many signs are bilingual, announcements are primarily in French.
  6. Check for Maintenance Closures: Some lines or stations may close temporarily for maintenance, especially on weekends.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate Montrealโ€™s Metro system with ease. Enjoy your time exploring the city!