Travelling in the Winter is no joke. Unless of course you are going to somewhere tropical with a beach front! If you have been following along on Instagram with our #instanomssmontreal, then you will likely know how cold Montreal was. And we haven’t even been that deep into Winter yet! Every place that we travel to also consumes you a little bit – you learn their culture, adapt to the surrounds and make the best out of the little time you have in the country / city.
Montreal in the winter is a lot different then in the summer. Winter in Montreal seems to little more grey. Having been here a few times in both climates, I still really love this old city. There is something charming about Vieux-Montreal. So I wanted to give you the general 411 on the following Montreal Travel Guide – What you need to know, how to get around Montreal and what to expect in the Winter.
Getting Around
If you flying into Montréal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport likely you will want to stay at least 2 nights. Get a taste of downtown Montreal before you take off somewhere else. Personally I feel that you will need a few days to make your trip worthwhile.
Getting from Montréal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport to downtown Montreal is easy. There are a few options.
Ground transportation you can option to take the 747 P-E-Trudeau Airport/Downtown. The 747 bus line service runs 24/7 between Montréal-Trudeau airport and the central bus station (Gare d’autocars de Montréal – Berri-UQAM métro station). The fare will cost you $10 CAD and will take 45 to 6o minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Taxis often have long queues waiting to board. But depending on how many travelers you have, this may be the more comfortable solution. The fare will cost you $40 to $60 CAD and will take 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. I like taking the taxi especially during the winter times because I hate waiting in the cold.
Uber is another great option. If there happens to be a driver nearby, fares usually costs $30 to $40 CAD. It is easy to use on your smartphone. Just call up the app. Have you signed up for Uber yet? Sign up now and get FREE Uber credits. Try it! It’s so much easier than calling a cab!
Metro is a great way to get around the city. If you are planning to stick within the Montreal downtown core area, I really don’t need to rent a car. My French is a bit rusty, so I find it confusing even with the GPS. There are many good fare options: 1 day, 3 days, weekly passes. I recommend getting the 3 days and weekly passes if you are staying for the week. Do not by 1 trips each time you board. It is expensive and the costs will quickly rack up. Complete pricing can be found here.
- 1 trip fare costs $3.25 CAD (return trip will costs $6.50 CAD)
- 1 day fare costs $10 CAD
- 3 day fare costs $18 CAD
What To Bring
Adapter: Bring an adapter (North American Plug Adapter) if you are travelling outside of North Amercia.
Multiple forms of payment: cash, debit, credit cards. While most places accept multiple forms of payment, it is often safe to have a little extra cash. Smaller denomination in Canadian currency will come in handy for tipping and buying some ticket items like water.
Travelling to Canada for the first time? Make sure place an order at your bank for Canadian dollars as they likely do not carry enough in house if you go last minute.
As for credit cards, it is always best to carry two types ex. Visa + American Express. Some businesses usually accept one and not the other.
Extra Power: I always pack an extra power supply for my Iphone. I particularly love this gold studded power pack. When you are looking on Google Maps, check directions or What to eat in Montreal, it quickly uses up a lot of battery life.
Shoes: Please bring a pair of runners or a sensible pair of flats. You will be walking a lot and you want to be comfortable. Nowadays wearing a pair of stylish kicks is considered Athleisure and trendy.
What To Wear
Cashmere Sweater: In the winter I always bring a versatile black cashmere sweater. I love this cashmere for its lightness and warmth. This keeps your core warm even with those bloody windchill.
Blanket Scarf: I literally live in my Artizia Blanket Scarf. I am super bundled and cozy.
Warm Jacket: I always pack a nice wool jacket for days I need to be dressed up. Otherwise, I also bring a good down jacket that is DWR durable water repellent!
What To Eat
Just about everything! Montreal is home to so many good restaurants, underground bars a great places for brunch. Always eat a traditional French meal. Afterall, you are in Montreal!
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