Gare Centrale Montreal
Montreal's central train station, a hub for VIA Rail and the modern REM metro, connecting you to the city and beyond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the rush
Gare Centrale Montreal
Best Time
Beat the rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Montreal's central train station, a hub for VIA Rail and the modern REM metro, connecting you to the city and beyond.
"The station is clean and well managed. Staff is nice and happy to help you."
🎯 REM Ticket Kiosks
REM ticket kiosks only accept cash, debit, or chip-enabled credit cards. Tap and mobile payments may not work.
🧳 VIA Rail Business Class
Consider Business Class for VIA Rail for a more comfortable ride with included snacks and meals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
REM Metro Access
Connected to the station
The Réseau express métropolitain (REM) offers a fast, modern way to travel within Montreal and to surrounding areas.
+2VIA Rail Departures
VIA Rail platforms
Connect to major Canadian cities like Toronto and Quebec City via VIA Rail, offering scenic and comfortable journeys.
+1Wetzel's Pretzels
Inside Gare Centrale
Grab a fresh, warm pretzel before your journey – a popular snack option for travelers.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Gare Centrale
VIA Rail Travel Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 REM Ticket Kiosks
REM ticket kiosks only accept cash, debit, or chip-enabled credit cards. Tap and mobile payments may not work.
🧳 VIA Rail Business Class
Consider Business Class for VIA Rail for a more comfortable ride with included snacks and meals.
♿ Accessibility Concerns
Some areas, like Brossard REM station, lack escalators, and Gare Centrale's may be non-functional.
🗺️ RESS Tunnel System
The RESS tunnel system connects to many areas but can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 REM Ticket Kiosks
REM ticket kiosks only accept cash, debit, or chip-enabled credit cards. Tap and mobile payments may not work.
🧳 VIA Rail Business Class
Consider Business Class for VIA Rail for a more comfortable ride with included snacks and meals.
♿ Accessibility Concerns
Some areas, like Brossard REM station, lack escalators, and Gare Centrale's may be non-functional.
🗺️ RESS Tunnel System
The RESS tunnel system connects to many areas but can be confusing for first-time visitors.
🛍️ Nearby Shopping
The station is adjacent to a shopping mall, offering plenty of dining and retail options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gare Centrale is a functional, albeit dated, transportation hub. While it offers convenient access to VIA Rail and the new REM metro, its aging infrastructure and occasional accessibility issues are noted. Travelers appreciate the nearby amenities and the efficiency of the REM, but some find the station confusing and lacking modern conveniences. +1
"Nov2024 Arrived from Toronto Union Station by way of the VIA system just before midnight. In comparison to the station in Toronto, Gare Centrale is much aged and functionally challenging. At the main concourse it does not have a central information kiosks for assistance, the lighting is generally dim and the signs are small except for the train status board.
Although they have the more established RESS tunnel system that connects to a number of areas, it is maze like and confusing for the first time visitor and lacks accessibility for disabled people.
We also got to visit their VIA Business Lounge which was very small and pretty cramped and basic.
The general state of the whole station is outdated in terms of architecture and technology. Hopefully it gets renovated someday."
Oliver Pe
"Rude cook in this breakfast restaurant
Trying to order an omelette. No idea what does all dressed is. Asked her again and she said I didn’t listen. Is not I didn’t listen is that I don’t understand. Breakfast stores in Ontario don’t use dressing for omelettes. Then she said I was rude. Tabarnak she is the rude one not me.
If is wasn’t because my mom was there I would have yell ‘You will not be having my business’ and walk away. I am the customer she is the cook. In this case the cook should mot be rude to the customer"
Lo Yu Sum
"June 2024 5*
My first real visit to Montreal Central Station - taking train to Toronto. The station is located in city centre and you can easily take taxi to this place.
There are lots of food shops inside and around the station as it is located next to shopping mall. The station is clean and well managed. Staff is nice and happy to help you. Boarding is quite well organized as all gates are on main floor.
The place is fully accessible and there are escalators connecting boarding area."
Jaspal Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gare Centrale is centrally located and easily accessible by taxi. It's also a major hub for the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) and connects to the STM metro system, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.
Yes, Gare Centrale is connected to the metro system via the REM, offering a modern and efficient way to travel within Montreal.
Absolutely, Gare Centrale is easily accessible by taxi, and it's a convenient option, especially if you have luggage.
From Gare Centrale, you can access the REM for rapid transit and connect to the STM metro and bus network for wider city coverage.
While centrally located, the station's internal layout and the RESS tunnel system can be a bit confusing for newcomers. Look for clear signage for train departures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
REM ticket kiosks at Gare Centrale accept cash, debit, or chip-enabled credit cards. Mobile payment options like tap, Apple Pay, etc., are not supported.
VIA Rail ticket prices vary by class and destination. For example, a trip from Montreal to Quebec City can range from C$125 in Economy to C$198 in Business class.
Yes, there are ticket machines at Gare Centrale where you can purchase transit tickets and passes, including the recommended 3-day unlimited transit pass for Zone A.
It's highly recommended to book VIA Rail tickets in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak times or want to secure specific seating.
VIA Rail offers various discounts, including for youth, seniors, and students. Check their website for current promotions and eligibility.
🎫 🚆 Onsite Experience
Gare Centrale offers food shops, including Wetzel's Pretzels, and a VIA Rail Business Lounge. However, some facilities like escalators may be non-functional. +2
While some reviews suggest accessibility challenges, particularly with non-functional escalators and the RESS tunnel system, the station is generally considered accessible with escalators connecting platforms to the lobby. +1
The VIA Rail Business Lounge at Gare Centrale is described as small and basic, offering complimentary coffee, tea, soda, and juice. Air conditioning can sometimes be an issue. +1
Yes, there are several food shops inside and around Gare Centrale, including Wetzel's Pretzels and a breakfast restaurant. +2
Boarding for VIA Rail is generally well-organized with gates on the main floor. Booking Business Class can help avoid long queues.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the modern REM trains passing over the Lachine Canal for dynamic shots. The station's architecture, though dated, can also offer interesting perspectives.
Yes, photography of trains and the station environment is generally permitted, offering great opportunities for transport enthusiasts.
The contrast between the older station architecture and the sleek, new REM trains provides a unique visual narrative for photographers.
Early mornings or late evenings can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for more relaxed photography sessions.
Occasionally, public performances or events might occur, offering spontaneous photo opportunities, like those seen with Cirque du Soleil.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Grabbing a snack like a pretzel from Wetzel's Pretzels can be a hit with kids before a long train ride. +1Be prepared for potential accessibility challenges, as some escalators may be out of service, which could be difficult with strollers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Purchasing a 3-day unlimited transit pass for Zone A is highly recommended if you plan on using public transport extensively, as it covers buses, the metro, and even the airport bus 747. While VIA Rail offers Business Class, opting for Economy class on trains can save money. Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid purchasing them at inflated station prices, though Wetzel's Pretzels offers a relatively affordable treat.
+1✈️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The REM: Montreal's New Metro
+2Travelers have noted that while the REM is fast and convenient, the ticket kiosks at Gare Centrale have limitations, accepting only cash, debit, or chip-enabled credit cards, excluding tap and mobile payments. Additionally, some stations, including Gare Centrale, have experienced issues with non-functioning escalators, which can be a concern for accessibility.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the REM is a significant upgrade for Montreal's transit system, making it easier and quicker to navigate the city and its surroundings. It's a must-try for anyone looking to experience modern urban transport in Montreal.
+1Navigating VIA Rail Travel
When booking VIA Rail, it's advisable to pay attention to seat assignments. Some seats face the direction of travel, while others face backward. For those prone to motion sickness, selecting a forward-facing seat can significantly improve the travel experience. Staff are generally helpful and can assist with seat changes if available.
The station itself offers a VIA Rail Business Lounge for eligible passengers, providing a quiet space to wait before boarding. While described as basic, it offers complimentary beverages. The boarding process is usually organized, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods.
Station Amenities and Dining
+1 There are also other dining establishments within the station and in the adjacent shopping mall, providing choices for different tastes and budgets. While the station aims to serve travelers, some reviews point to an outdated infrastructure and a lack of central information kiosks, which can make navigation challenging for first-time visitors.
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