Quebec City

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Buses

Information about public and intercity bus options, a primary transportation method within Quebec City and for nearby regions.

Sections

1. Overview of the RTC Bus System

The RTC operates an extensive network of buses that serve Quebec City and its surrounding areas. The system is designed to connect key neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and transit hubs, making it a practical option for both residents and visitors.

  • Types of Services:
    • Regular Routes: Cover most areas of the city, including residential neighborhoods and commercial districts.
    • Metrobus Lines: High-frequency routes (800, 801, 802, and 803) that connect major areas, including Old Quebec, Sainte-Foy, and Charlesbourg.
    • Express Routes: Designed for commuters, these routes provide faster service to specific destinations during peak hours.
    • Flexibus: A flexible, on-demand service available in certain areas.
    • Ecolobus (Seasonal): Electric buses that operate in Old Quebec (availability may vary).

2. Costs and Fare Options

The RTC offers several fare options to suit different needs. Prices are accurate as of October 2023 but may be subject to change.

  • Single Ride Fare:

    • Adult: CAD $3.75
    • Reduced Fare (students, seniors, children): CAD $2.60
    • Children under 6: Free (when accompanied by an adult)

  • Day Passes:

    • 1-Day Pass: CAD $9.00
    • 2-Day Pass: CAD $15.50
    • Unlimited travel for the duration of the pass.

  • Monthly Pass:

    • Adult: CAD $92.50
    • Reduced Fare: CAD $63.00

  • Family Pass (Weekends and Holidays):

    • Allows up to 2 adults and 3 children (under 18) to travel together for the price of one adult fare.

3. How to Purchase Tickets or Transit Passes

  • RTC Points of Sale:

    • Tickets and passes can be purchased at RTC service centers, convenience stores, and pharmacies displaying the RTC logo.
    • Major locations include the Gare du Palais (train and bus station) and Place d’Youville.

  • Onboard Payment:

    • You can pay cash directly to the driver for a single ride, but exact change is required.

  • Mobile App:

    • The RTC’s official app, RTC Nomade, allows you to purchase digital tickets and passes. You can also use the app to plan your trips and check schedules in real time.

  • OPUS Card:

    • A reloadable smart card used for storing tickets and passes. It’s convenient for frequent users and can be purchased at RTC service centers or authorized retailers.

4. Apps and Tools for Navigation

  • RTC Nomade App:

    • Provides real-time bus schedules, route planning, and service updates.
    • Available for both iOS and Android.

  • Google Maps:

    • Fully integrated with RTC’s transit system, allowing you to plan routes and check schedules.

  • Transit App:

    • A popular third-party app that offers real-time bus tracking and route planning for RTC buses.

5. Accessibility Features

The RTC is committed to making public transit accessible to everyone:

  • Low-Floor Buses: Most buses are equipped with ramps and low floors for easy boarding.
  • Priority Seating: Designated seating areas for seniors, pregnant individuals, and people with disabilities.
  • Paratransit Service: A specialized service for individuals with reduced mobility. Registration is required to use this service.
  • Audio and Visual Announcements: Many buses have automated systems that announce upcoming stops.

6. Schedules and Frequency

  • Regular Hours:

    • Most routes operate from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight.
    • Metrobus lines and some express routes offer extended hours.

  • Frequency:

    • Metrobus lines (800 and 801) run every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and every 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours.
    • Regular routes typically run every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day.

  • Weekend and Holiday Service:

    • Service is slightly reduced, but major routes, including Metrobus lines, continue to operate.

7. Practical Tips for Using the RTC Bus System

  • Plan Ahead: Use the RTC Nomade app or Google Maps to check schedules and plan your route. Buses may run less frequently in the evenings and on weekends.
  • Arrive Early: Be at the bus stop a few minutes before the scheduled arrival time.
  • Know Your Stop: Stops are marked with blue signs displaying the route numbers. Some stops also have digital displays showing real-time arrival information.
  • Validate Your Ticket: If using a paper ticket or OPUS card, make sure to validate it upon boarding.
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Quebec City can experience extreme weather, so dress appropriately, especially in winter.
  • Language: Most bus drivers speak French, but many understand basic English. It’s helpful to know the name of your destination in French.

8. Connecting to Popular Sites and Neighborhoods

The RTC bus system is well-connected to major attractions and neighborhoods:

  • Old Quebec (Vieux-QuΓ©bec):

    • Accessible via Metrobus 800 and 801. Stops include Place d’Youville and Gare du Palais.
    • Seasonal Ecolobus service may also be available.

  • Montmorency Falls (Chute-Montmorency):

    • Take Metrobus 800 eastbound to the Montmorency Falls stop.

  • Sainte-Foy:

    • A major commercial and residential area, accessible via Metrobus 800, 801, and several regular routes.

  • Plains of Abraham:

    • Accessible via Metrobus 800 and 801. The closest stop is near the MusΓ©e national des beaux-arts du QuΓ©bec.

  • Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB):

    • Route 76 connects the airport to the Sainte-Foy area, where you can transfer to other routes.

  • LΓ©vis (via Ferry):

    • Take a bus to the Old Port area (e.g., Metrobus 800 or 801) and transfer to the ferry terminal for a short ride across the St. Lawrence River.

9. Additional Notes

  • Winter Travel: Buses are heated, but delays can occur during heavy snowstorms. Check the RTC Nomade app for updates.
  • Bike Racks: Some buses are equipped with bike racks, available seasonally.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Quebecers are generally polite and expect the same from others. Greet the driver with a simple β€œBonjour” when boarding.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Quebec City’s bus system and explore the city with ease. Bon voyage!