How to make the most of your layover in Montreal

Montreal is a city like no other. One of the largest cities in Canada, and arguably its nightlife and live music capital, the city combines Canadian culture and access to the outdoors with a certain French je ne sais quoi that comes from its history as a former French colony. As well as being one of the entertainment and cultural hotspots of North America, the city is also one steeped in history, and the city centre and Old Montreal offer some great experiences that will teach you more about Québecois culture.

Montreal Airport is one of the biggest and busiest in all of Canada, so even if this city isn't your final destination, it can be very tempting to explore the city while you wait for a connecting flight. Even a short Montréal layover may be enough to spend at least a few hours enjoying the city once you clear customs. Leave your bags behind with Bounce luggage storage in Montreal, and you can sample the charm of the city as you pass through.

Things to keep in mind before leaving Montreal Airport

Visa requirements for Canada

Before heading out of the airport, make sure you meet the entry requirements for Canada. Many nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visa to enter, so check your eligibility beforehand. US citizens can stay in the country visa-free for up to six months, as can citizens of the EU and many other countries. If you're flying with Air Canada, they often provide information on entry requirements, so be sure to check with your airline or boarding pass for any important details before planning to explore Montreal.

Minimum layover times in Montreal

With Montreal’s convenient transportation options and compact downtown area, you can maximize your time. Here are some general guidelines based on layover duration:

• In-airport short Montreal layover (2-3 hours): If your layover is brief, staying within the airport is usually your best bet. Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport has a range of shops, lounges, and dining options, so you can still enjoy your time even if you’re staying inside.
• Domestic flights (3-4 hours): If you’re taking a domestic flight, 3-4 hours is generally enough time to get through security and grab a meal or coffee before your next flight. It may even be worth considering paying to stay in the luxurious Air Canada lounge with its unlimited food and beverages and a view out over the runway.
• International flights (6-8 hours): With a longer layover, you’ll have enough time to step outside and see a nearby attraction like the Old Port or take a short walk along the St. Lawrence River. Just remember to allow time for security screening and pre-clearance for USA flights and check back in at the airport in advance.
• Long layover (8+ hours): If you have a layover of eight hours or more, you can take full advantage of the day and enjoy Montreal’s sights, shopping, and local dining spots.

What to do in Montreal during a layover

Montreal’s blend of history, nature, and culture makes it a fantastic city to explore. With easy access to the downtown area and reliable public transportation, you can experience a taste of the city no matter how long your layover is. To make things easier on yourself, drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage near the airport. That way, you know your belongings will be safely looked after while you navigate the city, and you can pick them up again on your way to catch your next flight.

Morning layover in Montreal

If you have a morning layover, start with a few iconic Montreal attractions that open early and allow you to experience the city at a slower pace.

• Activities: Start with Mont Royal, the city’s beloved mountain park that offers hiking trails, panoramic views, and a peaceful morning escape. This easily recognizable hill is a perfect spot for a scenic walk with beautiful views of the city and the St. Lawrence River. You’ll likely have enough time to reach the summit and take in the skyline before heading back to the airport. It's a great way to get a better sense of the city and, at the same time, enjoy one of its top attractions as the locals do.
• Breakfast spots: Head to Bagels on Saint-Viateur Street in the Mile End neighborhood for some of Montreal’s famous bagels, or stop by Olive et Gourmando in the Old Port, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and breakfast plates.

Afternoon layover in Montreal

If your layover extends into the afternoon, Montreal’s downtown area and historic sites offer plenty to see and do.

• Activities: Begin with a visit to the Old Port, where you can explore cobblestone streets, browse boutique shops, or visit the Montreal Science Centre. A walk along the St. Lawrence River in this area is perfect for travelers who want a quick taste of Montreal’s historic side. From there, you can head into the downtown area to see the Notre-Dame Basilica, an impressive Gothic Revival church known for its stunning interiors.
• Lunch spots: Try Schwartz’s Deli on Saint-Laurent Boulevard for the classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich or La Banquise for a serving of authentic poutine, a Canadian comfort food favorite. Poutine is Canada's national dish, and it was created in Québec, so Montréal is one of the best places to try this simple but tasty dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

Evening layover in Montreal

For a layover that stretches into the evening, Montreal’s vibrant nightlife and evening events make it easy to enjoy the city after dark.

• Activities: Start with a sunset walk along Mont Royal or the Old Port for beautiful views of the city and the river. From there, explore Montreal’s downtown area, which comes alive at night with bustling restaurants, music venues, and cozy cafes. If you’re interested in art and culture, see if there’s an evening event at Place des Arts, a major performing arts complex where you might catch a concert, theater production, or local performance. Of course, theaters, music venues, and bars are no place for large bags, so make sure you leave yours behind at a Bounce luggage storage before heading out to enjoy the unrivaled nightlife of the city. Bounce has locations near Montreal Airport and also throughout the city center, so you can leave your bags anywhere that's convenient for you and maximize your time here.
• Dinner spots: Port au Mar Restaurant in the Old Port offers a cozy ambiance and creative Portuguese dishes. For something a bit trendier, head to Garde Manger, known for its inventive seafood plates and local charm.

Overnight layover in Montreal

If you have an overnight layover, Montreal offers a range of hotels and activities that can make your stay comfortable and exciting.

• Hotels: Stay at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth about 20 minutes from the airport if you prefer convenience, or Hotel William Gray a little closer to the Old Port if you’d like to explore the city’s historic area a bit more.
• Night activities: If you’re up for a night out, the bars and bistros along Saint-Denis Street or Crescent Street in the downtown area offer great options. You might also enjoy a river cruise along the St. Lawrence River, which often offers beautiful night views of the city skyline.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Montreal

When planning a layover, here are some tips to make sure you have the best experience possible:

• Transportation: Montreal has a reliable metro and bus system, making it easy to get around if you want to explore the downtown area. Rideshare options are also widely available and convenient for layover travelers.
• Checking flight times: Montreal Airport can be busy, especially during peak hours. Keep an eye out for any gate changes and monitor your airline’s app for the latest updates on your flights.
• Currency and language: Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD), and while most places accept credit cards, it’s useful to have some cash on hand. Montreal is a bilingual city, so while French is the main language, most locals also speak English. However, language can be a tricky issue in Québec, so it definitely doesn't hurt to know at least a few French phrases so that you can say 'bonjour' and show that you at least recognize the city's French heritage.
• Expected costs: Montreal has a range of options to fit different budgets, from casual poutine shops to upscale dining, so there’s something for everyone.

A Montreal layover offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of the city. With highlights like Mont Royal, the Old Port, and the St. Lawrence River, you’ll have plenty of options for making the most of your time here, no matter the length of your stay. With your bags safely stored at a Bounce luggage storage location, you can maximize your time in one of Canada's most intriguing cities, and then make it back to the airport in time to catch your next flight.