How to use the Montreal subway for first-time visitors.

The Montreal Metro is the fastest and most economical way to get around the city, as long as the line goes to your destination. If you've never ridden the metro before or feel a little confused, don't worry! This article will guide you through each step in a simple and easy way. While it may sound complicated at first, it's actually very easy to grasp. Let's explore how to use the Montreal Metro network in the smartest and most efficient way!

Step 1: Find the nearest metro station easily by its distinctive sign.

• Metro stations are identifiable by their blue signs with a white downward-pointing arrow inside a circle.

• In the city center, many stations are connected to each other via underground tunnels.

• You can see these signs on office buildings or at the entrances of shopping malls.

• The green line runs along the de Maisonneuve road, extending east and west.

• The Orange Line runs under Viger and Saint-Jacques streets, curving northward on either side of the city center.

Step 2: Plan ahead to make taking the metro easier.

• First, determine your destination and the metro station you want to go to.

• If you're unsure, you can check a map of Montreal at metro stations, many bus stops, or on the streets.

• Metro maps are also available in each train car.

• You can ask for a compact map at the ticket counter for easy portability.

Step 3: Enter a convenient metro station, no need to worry about getting lost.

• Unlike in New York, any entrance in Montreal is usable for trains going in either direction.

• Most stations (except Longueuil station) allow you to change direction without leaving the ticket area.

• If you go past your stop, you can easily turn back without having to buy a new ticket.

Step 4: Buy a ticket and keep it to use again for the bus.

• You can buy tickets at the vending machines or at the counters near the ticket gates.

• Some entrances, such as Laurier Road (Laurier Station), are unmanned but still have ticket vending machines.

• Remember to keep your ticket safe — it's proof of payment and can also be used to transfer to another bus if needed.

Step 5: Determine the train's direction based on the final station.

• Metro trains are divided by direction based on the name of the last station on each line.

• Look at the map, identify your current location and the station you want to go to.

• Next, find the name of the final station on the line you need to go to.

• For example: If you are at Berri-UQAM station and want to go to Pie-IX station, you would take the green line, in the direction of Honoré-Beaugrand.

Step 6: Note the transfer point

• You may have to change trains to get to your desired destination.

• Determine the transfer station and your next route after the transfer beforehand.

• If you forget, don't worry — there are always maps in the train cars for easy reference.

Step 7: Find the correct route, the correct direction, and board the train.

• Look for signs that are color-coded and indicate the correct route and direction for your journey.

• Go down to the waiting area, wait for the train to arrive, then board.

• During peak hours, some trains on the Orange line may only run to Henri-Bourassa instead of Montmorency — note the name of the final station.

• There are no express trains or trains skipping stations, so you don't have to worry about missing your stop.

• The name of the next station will be announced in French as the train leaves the station and as it approaches.

Author: Lee. K.