Historic quarter with cobblestone streets, the Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica, and charming restaurants.

About Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal) is the city's atmospheric historic quarter, where cobblestone streets and 17th-century stone buildings transport visitors to the French colonial era. The magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica—with its stunning blue and gold interior—is the neighborhood's crown jewel, facing Place d'Armes where the city's founder Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve is commemorated with a statue.

The Old Port (Vieux-Port) waterfront has been transformed into a recreational zone with the Montreal Science Centre, seasonal outdoor activities (ice skating in winter, beach volleyball in summer), and the Clock Tower offering harbor views. Jacques-Cartier Square is the liveliest spot, with outdoor cafes, street performers, and artists. The neighbourhood comes alive at night with upscale restaurants, cocktail bars, and the Phi Centre arts venue. In winter, the cobblestones glitter under holiday lights, and horse-drawn carriages add old-world charm.

Nearby Landmarks

Notre-Dame Basilica Place Jacques-Cartier Old Port Bonsecours Market City Hall

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost CA\$41 flat rate (~\$30)
Time 25-35 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost CA\$25-\$35 (~\$18-\$26)
Time 25-35 minutes

Outside arrivals

Train (REM + Orange Line)

Cost CA\$11 (~\$8)
Time 30-35 minutes
Frequency REM every 5-10 min, Metro every 3-5 min

Step-by-Step Directions

Take REM to Gare Centrale, then walk 10 minutes to Old Montreal or take Orange Line metro to Place-d'Armes.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi CA\$41 flat rate (~\$30) 25-35 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare CA\$25-\$35 (~\$18-\$26) 25-35 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train CA\$11 (~\$8) 30-35 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The 747 bus runs 24 hours. After midnight, the metro stops but Old Montreal is walkable from the Berri-UQAM bus stop (15 minutes). Taxis are readily available in Old Montreal at all hours, especially around Jacques-Cartier Square. The flat fare from the airport is CAD $41.

Luggage Tips

Old Montreal's cobblestone streets are charming but challenging for wheeled luggage. Consider a taxi or rideshare directly to your hotel. The 747 bus has luggage racks for the airport-to-city portion.

Accessibility

The 747 bus and metro station Champ-de-Mars (with elevator) provide accessible routes. Old Montreal's cobblestones are difficult for wheelchair users—main streets like St-Paul and de la Commune are smoother. Notre-Dame Basilica has wheelchair access via a side entrance.