A long layover in Montreal is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Montreal International (Mirabel) Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 100 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of YMX:
- Can you legally enter Canada? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Montreal International (Mirabel) Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Montreal International (Mirabel) Airport into town:
- local transport: About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Montreal might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Montreal, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What’s Worth Seeing in Montreal
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Montreal, two standouts are:
- Old Montreal & Notre-Dame Basilica — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
- Mount Royal Park – Kondiaronk Belvedere — Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YMX, check out National Bank Lounge or Montréal-Trudeau Duty Free to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Montreal: Schwartz’s and Olive et Gourmando. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for P.F. Chang’s or Bistro Moderne. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Storing Your Luggage at Montreal International (Mirabel) Airport
Luggage storage options at YMX can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Montreal for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YMX is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Montreal and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at YMX
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at YMX.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Montreal count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave YMX. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.