Are there any rebates, discounts or passes for tourists in Montreal?

Here we unveil the secrets to unlocking Montreal's treasures while safeguarding your savings. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, we navigate the city's labyrinth of attractions, armed with strategies tailored to the frugal explorer. Whether you're drawn to the historic cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, the pulsating energy of downtown, or the serene expanses of Mount Royal Park, our guide is your compass to maximizing every dollar spent. Yes, Montreal offers various discounts and passes for tourists to explore the city conveniently and affordably. Let's embark on this adventure together, where every penny saved enhances the richness of your Montreal experience. Here are 4 tips and tricks you might find useful to save you money while visiting Montreal :
 

• Montreal Attractions Passes: This is the big package. The MTL passport also known as the Passeport Montréal, is a tourist pass offered by Tourisme Montréal, the official tourism board of Montreal. It provides visitors with access to a variety of attractions, activities, and public transportation options at a discounted rate. Unlimited travel on Montreal's public transportation system, including buses and the metro, for a specified duration. Free or discounted admission to popular attractions, museums, and cultural sites in Montreal. These may include iconic landmarks like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Biodome, the Botanical Garden, and more. Special discounts and rebates on guided tours, cruises, outdoor activities, and entertainment options throughout the city. Exclusive rebates and discounts at select restaurants, cafes, and shops in Montreal, allowing visitors to sample local cuisine and purchase souvenirs at a reduced price. The Montreal Passport is designed to make exploring the city more convenient and affordable for tourists, providing them with a comprehensive package that covers transportation, sightseeing, and other experiences. It's a popular option for visitors looking to maximize their time in Montreal while saving money on admission fees and other expenses. It's worth noting that the specific offerings and pricing of the Montreal Passport may vary depending on the season and any ongoing promotions. Travelers are encouraged to check the official Tourisme Montréal website or inquire at tourist information centers for the most up-to-date information on the Montreal Passport and other tourist passes available in the city.

• Public Transportation Passes: The Montreal public transportation system operates on a fare system that allows passengers to use various types of passes or pay-per-use options to access buses, the metro (subway), and commuter trains.  The Opus card is a rechargeable smart card used for accessing Montreal's public transportation network. It is a durable plastic card with an embedded chip that stores fare information. Travelers can purchase an Opus card at various locations, including metro stations, convenience stores, and transit centers, and then load it with funds or passes. There are two types of passes : the regular one and the reduced fare pass. Reduced fare passes are available for seniors, students, and children. These passes offer discounted rates compared to regular passes and require proof of eligibility, such as a student ID or proof of age. By using the Opus card, travelers can enjoy convenient and cost-effective access to Montreal's extensive public transportation network, making it easy to explore the city's attractions, neighborhoods, and landmarks.
  

• Bike Rentals: BIXI is Montreal's public bike-sharing system, offering residents and visitors a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around the city. Here's how BIXI works: BIXI stations are strategically located throughout Montreal's downtown core and surrounding neighborhoods. You can easily locate stations using the BIXI mobile app, website, or by looking for the distinctive blue BIXI docks on city streets. To use BIXI, you'll need to become a member. There are various membership options available, including single ride passes, day passes, monthly passes, and annual memberships. Visitors can typically purchase short-term passes that provide access to the system for a specified duration. Once you've become a member or purchased a pass, you can unlock a bike from any BIXI station. Simply approach the station kiosk or use the BIXI app to select a bike, enter your membership or pass information, and receive a code to unlock the bike. With your bike unlocked, you're free to explore Montreal at your own pace. BIXI bikes are designed for short trips and commuting, with sturdy frames, adjustable seats, and built-in lights for nighttime riding. Ride safely, obey traffic laws, and be courteous to pedestrians and other cyclists. When you're finished riding, return the bike to any BIXI station in the city. Slide the bike securely into an available dock, wait for the green light to indicate that it's properly locked, and you're good to go. Make sure the bike is securely docked to avoid additional fees. BIXI is available 24/7 during the operating season, making it convenient for exploring Montreal day or night. The system operates from spring to fall, with bikes available from April to November, weather permitting. By utilizing BIXI, visitors to Montreal can enjoy the flexibility and convenience of cycling while reducing their environmental impact and exploring the city's attractions, neighborhoods, and scenic pathways with ease. 
  

• Tourist Information Centers: Make sure to stop by one of Montreal's tourist information centers upon arrival. They often provide maps, guides, and information about current promotions and discounts for tourists. Overall, visiting Tourist Information Centers in Montreal is a valuable step to take when planning your trip or seeking assistance during your stay. Their wealth of resources, local expertise, and personalized assistance can help you make the most of your time in this dynamic and culturally rich city.

    
   
By taking advantage of these rebates, discounts and passes, you can make the most of your time in Montreal while saving some money along the way! In conclusion, discounts and passes for tourists in Montreal serve as invaluable tools for enhancing the overall travel experience while effectively managing expenses. As we've explored, Montreal offers a diverse array of options tailored to accommodate various interests, preferences, and budgets. From the convenience of the Montreal Attractions Passes, which provide access to multiple attractions at discounted rates, to the flexibility of public transportation passes like the Opus card, which offer unlimited travel on buses and the metro, visitors have ample opportunities to explore the city affordably. These passes not only streamline the logistics of sightseeing but also unlock exclusive perks and savings that may otherwise be elusive. Moreover, the role of Tourist Information Centers cannot be overstated. These hubs of local knowledge serve as indispensable resources, offering personalized recommendations, event information, and assistance with bookings. Whether seeking advice on dining options, accommodation, or navigating the city's cultural landscape, the expertise and guidance provided by Tourist Information Centers are invaluable assets for travelers. Furthermore, Montreal's commitment to sustainability and accessibility is reflected in initiatives such as BIXI, the city's bike-sharing system. By offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective means of transportation, BIXI promotes exploration while minimizing environmental impact, contributing to a more enjoyable and responsible travel experience. In essence, the availability of discounts and passes for tourists in Montreal not only fosters affordability but also fosters inclusivity, enabling travelers from all walks of life to immerse themselves in the city's rich tapestry of culture, history, and charm. Whether embarking on a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, these resources empower visitors to create memories that endure long after their time in Montreal has come to an end. So, whether you're marveling at world-class museums, savoring culinary delights, or meandering through picturesque neighborhoods, let the discounts and passes be your passport to unlocking the wonders of Montreal, one unforgettable experience at a time.

 

 

How Montreal's OPUS card works and how to reload it with the Chrono app?

The OPUS card and Chrono app are both part of the public transit system in Montreal, Canada. Montreal's public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and accessibility, serving as a vital lifeline for residents and visitors alike. Operated by the STM (Société de transport de Montréal), the network encompasses a comprehensive array of services, including buses, metro trains, and commuter trains. The iconic metro system, recognized for its distinctive architecture and efficient operation, provides rapid transit throughout the city and surrounding areas. Complemented by an extensive bus network, travelers can navigate Montreal's diverse neighborhoods with ease. With user-friendly features such as the OPUS card for seamless fare payment and the Chrono app for trip planning and real-time updates, Montreal's public transport system exemplifies modern urban mobility, contributing to the city's vibrant and dynamic character. Here's how the OPUS card works and how to recharge it with the mobile Chrono app works :

1. 
   OPUS Card: The OPUS card is a smart card used for accessing public transit services in Montreal. It can be loaded with various types of fares, such as single trips, daily passes, or monthly passes. Users can load money onto the card and then use it to tap in and out of buses and metro stations. The OPUS card stands as the cornerstone of Montreal's public transportation system, revolutionizing the way commuters access and utilize transit services. As a smart card solution introduced by the STM (Société de transport de Montréal), the OPUS card streamlines fare payment for buses and metro trains, offering convenience and flexibility to riders. Whether loading funds for single trips, daily passes, or monthly subscriptions, users can easily tap their OPUS card upon boarding, eliminating the hassle of carrying cash or purchasing tickets. Beyond its practicality, the OPUS card embodies Montreal's commitment to sustainable urban mobility, encouraging environmentally friendly transportation choices. With its user-friendly interface and widespread acceptance across the transit network, the OPUS card remains an indispensable tool for navigating Montreal's bustling streets and diverse neighborhoods.

2. 
   Chrono App: The Chrono app is a mobile application developed by the STM (Société de transport de Montréal), which is Montreal's public transit agency. Montreal's Chrono mobile app is a powerful companion for navigating the city's bustling public transit network with ease and efficiency. Chrono offers a range of features to enhance the transit experience for locals and visitors alike. From trip planning and real-time vehicle tracking to convenient fare purchasing options, the app puts essential transit information at users' fingertips. Commuters can effortlessly map out their routes, receive live updates on bus and metro arrivals, and stay informed about service disruptions or delays. With its intuitive interface and seamless integration with the OPUS card system, Chrono simplifies the process of getting around Montreal, empowering individuals to travel confidently and efficiently throughout the city. The app provides various features to help users navigate the transit system more efficiently. Some key features include:
   • Trip planning: Users can enter their starting point and destination to get route options, including bus and metro schedules, transfer points, and estimated travel times.
   • Real-time tracking: The app provides real-time updates on the locations of buses and metros, allowing users to see when the next vehicle will arrive at their stop.
   • Ticket purchase: Users can buy and store transit fares directly within the app, eliminating the need for physical tickets or cards.
   • Service alerts: The app notifies users of any service disruptions, delays, or other important information affecting their planned route.
     

 

Here's how you can easily recharge your Montreal's OPUS card with the mobile Chrono app :

• Download the Chrono app - Choose your OS  
  This application has been around for a while now and offers the ability to view timetables for bus, metro and several other services in real time. The OPUS mobile recharge functionality has been integrated to it.

• Synchronize your card - Once the application is open, you must click on the icon illustrating an OPUS card, which is located at the top right. To synchronize your card, simply select the “start reading” option on the OPUS card, before placing it on the mobile phone camera. It is this manipulation which will make it possible to find the card number and, therefore, the customer account.
• Validate or reload - The OPUS card is kept read and recognized. The application allows you to see if there are any tickets left and what type of packages. At the bottom of the screen, you can begin the process of purchasing a transport ticket 100% digitally. Please note: it is always possible to start from scratch to read another card. 
• Choose your travel area - Before purchasing a ticket, you will need to choose the travel zone. Since the overhaul of the fee schedule, zone A includes the island of Montreal, while zone B includes Laval and Longueuil. Finally, zones C and D affect the northern and southern crowns. The more areas you cross, the higher the cost of the ticket.
• Select a ticket - This is one of the last steps before buying: choosing your type of transport ticket. There are several, from weekly to monthly, including single passages, “two passages”, “ten passages”, unlimited evenings or weekends. And the price to pay is indicated for each of these titles. So all that remains is to add a credit card, pay, and that’s it!

 

Both the OPUS card and Chrono app aim to make using public transit in Montreal more convenient and accessible for residents and visitors alike. Users can choose the option that best fits their preferences and travel habits. In conclusion, Montreal's OPUS card and Chrono app stand as indispensable tools in navigating the city's vibrant public transportation system. The OPUS card simplifies fare payment, offering convenience and flexibility to commuters, while the Chrono app provides real-time updates and trip planning features to enhance the transit experience. Together, these innovations reflect Montreal's commitment to providing efficient, accessible, and sustainable urban mobility solutions for residents and visitors alike, ensuring that getting around the city is both seamless and straightforward.

 

What is the Montreal's Underground City and where can I find it?

The Montreal Underground City, also known as the RESO, is one of the most extensive underground pedestrian networks in the world. It's a network of interconnected tunnels, passages, and shopping complexes beneath the streets of downtown Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Here are some key aspects of the Montreal Underground City:

1. 
   Origin: The development of Montreal's underground city can be traced back to the mid-20th century when city planners sought innovative solutions to cope with the city's harsh winter climate. The first underground pedestrian tunnel, connecting Place Ville-Marie to the Central Station, was opened in 1962. The digging of the tunnels involved various engineering techniques and machinery typical for large-scale underground construction projects of that era. The tunnels were primarily excavated using tunnel boring machines (TBMs), which are large machines specifically designed for digging tunnels underground. These machines bore through the soil and rock, creating the tunnels as they advance. TBMs were especially useful in urban environments like Montreal, where space constraints and existing infrastructure made traditional open-cut methods less practical. Overall, the construction of the Montreal Metro tunnels in 1962 would have been a significant engineering undertaking, requiring careful planning, skilled labor, and the use of various advanced construction technologies of the time. Over the decades, the network expanded rapidly, spurred by the construction of office buildings, shopping centers, and transportation hubs.

2. Expansion: Over the years, the network expanded significantly. It now spans approximately 33 kilometers (20 miles) of tunnels and covers an area of more than 12 square kilometers (4.6 square miles). It connects various office buildings, hotels, shopping centers, universities, metro stations, and more.

3. 
   Architecture and Design: The underground city is a labyrinthine maze of corridors, walkways, and interconnected spaces, linking together a vast array of buildings, including office towers, hotels, shopping malls, universities, museums, and metro stations. The architecture of the underground spaces varies from sleek modern designs to historic structures, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage. While much of the architecture within the Underground City reflects the styles prevalent during its construction, referring to the 1960s. Many of the structures boast modernist or contemporary designs, featuring clean lines, geometric shapes, and large glass facades. Despite being underground, the design of the Montreal Underground City incorporates natural light wherever possible. A network of skylights, glass atriums, and open courtyards allows sunlight to filter into the underground spaces, creating a more inviting and pleasant environment for pedestrians.

4. Functionality: The Underground City serves multiple purposes. Beyond providing shelter from the cold, it offers a convenient way for people to commute, especially during inclement weather. It also houses a wide range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, theaters, museums, and even residential areas.

5. 
   Integration with Public Transit: In addition to pedestrian access, Montreal's underground city provides convenient connections to the city's public transportation system. Several metro stations are integrated into the network, allowing commuters to travel seamlessly between different parts of the city. Also, Montreal's major train stations, such as Central Station (Gare Centrale) and Lucien-L'Allier Station, have direct connections to the Réso. These stations serve intercity and commuter trains, making it convenient for travelers arriving by train to access the underground network. The underground city is also accessible via the city's bus network. Several bus stops are located near entrances to the underground network, allowing passengers to access the Réso after disembarking from their bus. Underground parking facilities cater to those who prefer to drive, offering a convenient option for accessing the downtown core.

6. Tourism and Attractions: The Montreal Underground City is a popular tourist attraction in its own right. Visitors can explore its vast network of tunnels, discover hidden gems, and enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment options along the way. Visitors can explore an extensive selection of shops, boutiques, and department stores, offering everything from fashion and electronics to books and gifts. The network also boasts an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and food courts, serving up cuisine from around the world. For entertainment, there are movie theaters, theaters, and concert halls hosting live performances and events. Art galleries and exhibition spaces showcase the work of local and international artists. Sports enthusiasts can find fitness centers and recreational facilities, while families can enjoy indoor playgrounds and game arcades.

7. Cultural Significance: The Underground City has become an integral part of Montreal's identity. It reflects the city's resilience in adapting to its climate and demonstrates Montreal's innovative urban planning.

At what time opens Montreal's underground city? What are the business open hours?
The opening hours for the Montreal Underground City, can vary depending on the specific entrances and exits as well as the businesses located within. Generally, the underground city connects to various metro stations and commercial buildings, so it operates in conjunction with their respective opening hours. Most of the underground city is accessible during regular business hours, typically from around 7 or 8 AM until 21h PM on weekdays. However, some sections may have extended hours, particularly those connected to shopping centers or entertainment venues. It's recommended to check the specific hours of the places you intend to visit within the underground city for accurate information.

Overall, the Montreal Underground City is a fascinating and practical urban marvel, offering both locals and visitors a unique way to experience the city, especially during the challenging winter season. You can visit various parts of the Montreal Underground City throughout downtown Montreal. Some of the key areas and landmarks within the underground network include:

1. Place Ville Marie: This iconic skyscraper complex in downtown Montreal has an underground shopping concourse connected to the Underground City. It's a hub for shopping, dining, and accessing other parts of the network. Place Ville Marie open hours are from 9h00 to 21h00.

2. Complexe Desjardins: Another major shopping and office complex, Complexe Desjardins, is part of the Montreal Underground City. It features shops, restaurants, a hotel, and office space. Complexe Desjardins open hours are from 9h00 to 17h00.

3. Eaton Centre: The Montreal Eaton Centre, a large shopping mall, is interconnected with the Underground City. It offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Montreal's underground Eaton Centre open hours are from 10h00 to 21h00.

4. Underground City Art: Throughout the network, you'll find various public art installations and exhibits, adding to the cultural experience of exploring the Underground City.

5. Metro Stations: Many metro stations in downtown Montreal have direct connections to the Underground City. Some notable stations include McGill, Bonaventure, Place-des-Arts, and Peel.

6. Place Bonaventure: This multi-purpose building includes office space, a hotel, exhibition halls, and a shopping concourse that connects to the Underground City. The Place Bonaventure is always open to public, so the open hours are 24h/7.

7. Hotel Complexes: Several hotels in downtown Montreal, such as the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth and the Marriott Château Champlain, are accessible from the Underground City.

    

Download Montreal's Underground City Map

The map of Montreal's underground city is a testament to its complexity and functionality. It's not just a simple grid; it's a carefully curated web of interconnected pathways, corridors, and tunnels that span over 32 kilometers (20 miles). Navigating this underground maze can be a daunting task for newcomers, but for Montrealers, it's second nature. At its core, the underground city map revolves around key landmarks and hubs. Places like Place Ville-Marie, Complexe Desjardins, and Place Bonaventure serve as anchors, around which clusters of shops, restaurants, offices, and entertainment venues are organized. These hubs are interconnected by a network of pedestrian walkways, escalators, and tunnels, allowing people to traverse the city without ever stepping foot above ground. The map is designed for efficiency, with color-coded pathways and clear signage guiding pedestrians to their desired destinations. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat, a place to shop, or a shortcut to your office, the underground city map has you covered. In essence, the map of Montreal's underground city is a testament to human ingenuity and adaptability. It's a testament to the city's ability to thrive in the face of adversity, transforming what could have been a mere shelter from the cold into a thriving subterranean metropolis. So whether you're a visitor exploring its depths for the first time or a seasoned Montrealer navigating its twists and turns, the underground city map is sure to captivate and inspire. Exploring the Montreal Underground City is an adventure in itself, and you can easily spend hours wandering through its tunnels, discovering new shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way. Keep in mind that while many parts of the Underground City are open to the public, access to certain areas may vary depending on opening hours and individual building policies.