Traveling from Ottawa, Canada’s capital, to Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is a common journey for both business and leisure travelers. With a distance of about 170–190 kilometers (105–120 miles), the trip can be completed in under two and a half hours, depending on the mode of transport and traffic. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top five ways to make this journey, including practical tips, cost estimates, and what to expect for each option.
1. Train (VIA Rail) + Shuttle/Taxi
Overview:
Taking the train from Ottawa to Montreal is one of the most comfortable and reliable ways to travel. VIA Rail operates several daily departures between Ottawa and Montreal’s Dorval station, which is conveniently located near the airport.
How it works:
Board a VIA Rail train at Ottawa Station.
Disembark at Dorval Station (the closest stop to the airport).
Take a free shuttle or a short taxi ride (about 5 minutes) from Dorval Station to Montreal Airport.
Duration:
Train: 1 hour 37 minutes to Dorval.
Shuttle/taxi: 5–10 minutes.
Total: Around 2 hours.
Cost:
Train: $22–$90 (depending on class and booking time).
Shuttle/taxi: Free (shuttle) or $10–$20 (taxi).
Pros:
Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and amenities on board.
Reliable schedules and minimal traffic delays.
Scenic views along the Ottawa River.
Cons:
Requires a transfer at Dorval.
Must coordinate train and shuttle/taxi schedules.
Best for:
Travelers prioritizing comfort and reliability, or those with luggage.
2. Direct Intercity Bus
Overview:
Several bus companies offer direct service between Ottawa and Montreal, with some routes extending to Montreal Airport. Orléans Express and Tour Express are notable providers.
How it works:
Board a bus at Ottawa’s main bus terminal or convenient city locations.
Some buses go directly to Montreal Airport; others may require a transfer at Montreal’s central bus station.
Duration:
2 to 3 hours, depending on route and traffic.
Cost:
$24–$65, depending on provider and time of booking.
Pros:
Budget-friendly.
Frequent departures throughout the day.
No need to worry about parking or driving.
Cons:
Longer travel time compared to train.
Less privacy and comfort, especially during peak hours.
Best for:
Budget-conscious travelers, students, and those without heavy luggage.
3. Airport Shuttle Service
Overview:
Dedicated airport shuttle services like Tour Express run multiple times daily between Ottawa (and Gatineau) and Montreal Airport. These shuttles are designed for air travelers and offer direct, no-transfer service.
How it works:
Board at a designated pick-up location in Ottawa or Gatineau (e.g., behind McDonald’s at 197 Rue Champlain, Gatineau).
Arrive directly at Montreal Airport.
Duration:
Approximately 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Cost:
Tickets start from $45.
Pros:
Direct service to the airport.
No transfers or complicated logistics.
Luggage assistance.
Cons:
Fixed schedule—less flexibility than private options.
May have multiple pick-up/drop-off stops.
Best for:
Air travelers with flights at set times, families, and those seeking a stress-free experience.
4. Private Car Service or Towncar
Overview:
For maximum comfort and convenience, private car services (including luxury vehicles and towncars) can be booked for door-to-door transport between Ottawa and Montreal Airport.
How it works:
Book a private car or towncar in advance.
Get picked up at your chosen location in Ottawa.
Direct, non-stop ride to Montreal Airport.
Duration:
2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Cost:
$250–$400, depending on vehicle type and provider.
Pros:
Personalized, flexible scheduling.
Comfortable, private, and direct.
Professional drivers.
Cons:
Significantly more expensive than shared options.
Must book in advance.
Best for:
Business travelers, families, groups, or those with lots of luggage or special requirements.
5. Self-Drive (Rental Car or Personal Vehicle)
Overview:
Driving yourself is the most flexible option, allowing you to travel on your own schedule and make stops along the way.
How it works:
Rent a car at Ottawa Airport or use your own vehicle.
Drive via Autoroute 417 (Trans-Canada Highway) and Autoroute 40 in Quebec, following signs to Montreal Airport.
Duration:
About 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic and route.
Cost:
Rental car: $50–$120/day, plus fuel and tolls.
Parking at Montreal Airport: Additional daily fees.
Pros:
Maximum flexibility.
Opportunity to explore towns like Hawkesbury or scenic stops along the Ottawa River.
Good for groups or families.
Cons:
Must deal with traffic, navigation, and parking.
One-way rental fees may apply if not returning to Ottawa.
Best for:
Travelers who value independence, are traveling in a group, or wish to explore en route.
How to Get from Ottawa Airport (YOW) to Montebello
Montebello, a picturesque village on the Ottawa River, is about 96 km (60 miles) from Ottawa Airport. It’s best known for the Fairmont Le Château Montebello resort.
Options:
Shuttle Service:
Occasionally, special event shuttles run from Ottawa Airport directly to Montebello hotels (such as for conferences or retreats). These must be booked in advance and are not always available for the general public.
Taxi or Ride-hailing:
Taxis from Ottawa Airport to Montebello typically cost around $215 CAD, while Uber may quote as low as $100 CAD, though drivers are often reluctant to accept such long trips due to the return distance and provincial boundary. Always confirm with the driver before booking.
Car Rental:
Renting a car is a practical option, especially if you plan to explore the region. The drive is straightforward and takes about 70 minutes.
Take Airport Parkway, Bronson Ave, and Booth St to Autoroute 50 E in Hull, Gatineau.
Follow Autoroute 50 E to QC-323 S in Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours-Partie-Nord.
Take exit 210 from Autoroute 50 E, then QC-323 S to Montebello.
Best Option:
For most travelers, renting a car offers the best combination of flexibility and value. Taxis are reliable but expensive, and Uber availability is inconsistent for this route.
How to Get from Ottawa to Montreal Airport (YUL)
Summary of Main Options:
Mode Duration Cost (CAD) Notes
Train + Shuttle ~2 hours $22–$90 (train) Transfer at Dorval; reliable
Direct Bus 2–3 hours $24–$65 Some direct to YUL
Airport Shuttle 2–2.5 hours $45+ Direct, fixed schedule
Private Car/Towncar 2–2.5 hours $250–$400 Door-to-door, luxury
Self-Drive 2–2.5 hours $50–$120+fuel Flexible, parking fees at YUL
Tips:
- Book in Advance: Especially for shuttles, trains, and private cars.
- Travel Time: Allow extra time for rush hour or winter weather.
- Luggage: Consider your luggage needs when choosing a mode of transport.
Conclusion
Traveling from Ottawa to Montreal Airport offers a range of options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you prioritize comfort, cost, or convenience, you can choose from trains, buses, shuttles, private cars, or driving yourself. For those heading to Montebello from Ottawa Airport, car rental is usually the most practical, but taxis and occasional shuttles are also available. Always plan ahead, check schedules, and consider your specific needs to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.