Quick answer
Montreal-Trudeau Airport (YUL) is about 14km from downtown Montreal, and the trip takes around 25 minutes in normal traffic. You have solid options: the 747 Express Bus is the cheapest at ~$11 CAD, taxis have a flat rate of $41 CAD to downtown, and ride-shares (Uber) typically cost $25-40 CAD. If you want zero hassle, a pre-booked private transfer runs $55-75 CAD (~€38-52).
What actually happens after landing
After clearing customs (which can take 15-60 minutes depending on your flight origin and time), you'll walk through the arrivals hall. The airport is modern and well-signed in both French and English — Montreal is officially bilingual, though French dominates.
Important: International arrivals come through one area, domestic through another. Both lead to the ground transportation level. Follow signs for "Transport terrestre / Ground Transportation."
The taxi stand is right outside the arrivals doors. The 747 bus stop is also clearly marked outside. In winter (November-March), be prepared — it can be brutally cold outside, so don't plan to wait long.
Transport options explained honestly
Taxi — Montreal has a government-regulated flat fare of $41 CAD from YUL to downtown. This is non-negotiable — the driver can't charge more (or less). The ride is comfortable and straightforward. Taxis queue outside arrivals. Tip 15% on top.
Uber/Lyft — Available and usually $25-40 CAD to downtown depending on surge pricing. Pick-up is from designated ride-share zones on the departures level (one floor up). This can save you a few dollars vs. taxi but involves more walking.
Pre-booked transfer — A driver meets you in arrivals with your name on a sign. No waiting, no confusion. Costs $55-75 CAD (~€38-52) for a sedan. Worth it if you're arriving late, have lots of luggage, or just want someone waiting for you.
Rental car — All major companies are in the airport. But honestly, you don't need a car in downtown Montreal. Parking is expensive ($20-30 CAD/day) and the metro system is excellent.
Realistic pricing expectations
| Destination | Distance | Taxi estimate | Transfer estimate | |---|---|---|---| | Downtown Montreal | 14 km | $41 CAD (flat) / ~€28 | $55-75 CAD / ~€38-52 | | Old Montreal | 16 km | $41 CAD (flat) / ~€28 | $55-75 CAD / ~€38-52 | | Laval | 25 km | ~$55 CAD / ~€38 | $70-90 CAD / ~€48-62 | | Mont-Tremblant | 140 km | ~$200 CAD / ~€138 | $180-250 CAD / ~€124-172 | | Quebec City | 260 km | Not practical | $350-450 CAD / ~€241-310 |
Note: The $41 flat rate only applies to the downtown zone. Outside that zone, taxis use the meter. Always confirm the rate before departing.
Late night arrivals
Good news: the 747 bus runs 24 hours. Frequency drops to every 30 minutes after midnight, but it's still running. Taxis are always available at the stand — there's no shortage even at 2 AM. Uber is also active late but expect slightly longer wait times (5-10 minutes).
The airport itself stays open 24/7. If your flight arrives very late and you have an early morning connection, there are seating areas but no sleeping pods or capsule hotel. The nearest airport hotel is the Marriott right at the terminal.
Families and luggage
If you're traveling with kids and multiple suitcases, skip the bus. A taxi can handle 3-4 bags in the trunk, but if you have more, you'll need a minivan taxi (request one at the taxi stand — they're available but you might wait 5-10 minutes).
A pre-booked transfer lets you specify a minivan or SUV in advance, and the driver will help with luggage. Child car seats are legally required in Quebec for children under certain ages — taxis are exempt, but private transfers can provide them if you request ahead.
Winter tip: bring warm clothes accessible in your carry-on. The walk from terminal to transport can be freezing from November through March.
Where you meet the driver
Uber/Lyft: Go up one level to the departures area. The ride-share pick-up zones are on the outer lanes. The app will guide you to the exact spot.
Pre-booked transfer: Your driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, usually near the exit doors, holding a sign with your name. They'll help you to the car parked in the short-term lot — usually a 2-minute walk.
Decision helper
- Budget traveler, light luggage, no rush: 747 Express Bus ($11 CAD)
- Solo or couple, normal luggage: Taxi ($41 flat) or Uber ($25-40)
- Family with kids and bags: Pre-booked transfer with minivan
- Late night arrival: Taxi (fastest, always available) or 747 bus
- Business traveler: Pre-booked transfer (predictable, professional)
- Going outside downtown: Pre-booked transfer (flat rate known in advance)
- First time in Montreal: Taxi or transfer — save your energy for exploring
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a train from Montreal airport to downtown?
No, there is no rail connection from YUL to downtown Montreal. The long-planned REM light rail extension to the airport has been discussed for years but is not yet operational as of 2026. Your options are the 747 bus, taxi, ride-share, or private transfer.
How much is a taxi from Montreal airport to downtown?
There's a government-regulated flat rate of $41 CAD (~€28) from YUL to downtown Montreal. This covers most of the central area. Tip of 15% is customary, bringing the total to about $47 CAD.
Can I use Uber at Montreal airport?
Yes, Uber and Lyft both operate at YUL. However, the pick-up point is on the departures level (one floor up from arrivals), so you'll need to walk up. Typical cost to downtown is $25-40 CAD depending on demand.
Does the airport bus run at night?
Yes, the 747 Express Bus runs 24/7. During the day, buses come every 10-15 minutes. After midnight, frequency drops to every 30 minutes. The fare is $11 CAD.
How long does it take to get from YUL to downtown Montreal?
By taxi or car, about 20-25 minutes in normal traffic, up to 40 minutes in rush hour. The 747 bus takes 45-60 minutes as it makes several stops along the way.