Longueuil Travel Guide
City City in Quebec known for its parks
Across the St. Lawrence from Montreal, Longueuil’s Old Longueuil, riverfront parks and bike paths draw day‑trippers. Catch the commuter ferry, visit Saint‑Antoine Cathedral and sample Quebecois bakeries.
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Why Visit Longueuil? #
Longueuil is a practical and pleasant gateway to Montreal with its leafy riverfront parks and a walkable Old Longueuil neighbourhood full of stone buildings and cafés. Stroll along the St. Lawrence waterfront, shop Rue Saint-Charles, then hop the Longueuil-Université-de-Sherbrooke metro for quick access to downtown Montreal. The city’s francophone culture, seasonal festivals, and riverside green spaces make it appealing for visitors who want a quieter base near big-city amenities.
Who's Longueuil For?
Longueuil is a family-oriented suburb with parks like Parc Pierre-Boucher, playgrounds and community centres in Le Vieux-Longueuil and Saint-Hubert. Good schools, safe residential streets and straightforward commuting to Montreal make it practical for family stays and longer visits.
Longueuil functions as a commuter and light-industry hub with decent conference hotels near the metro (Longueuil-Université-de-Sherbrooke) and good road links to Autoroute 10/20. It’s convenient for businesses serving the Greater Montreal area without city-centre costs.
Riverside promenades, Parc Michel-Chartrand and green spaces along the St. Lawrence offer pleasant outdoor time close to the city. Small trails and cycling routes appeal to locals wanting waterside walks and park picnics, though for wilder nature you head farther out of town.
Longueuil can work for remote workers who want lower rents and easy access to Montreal’s coworking scene. Reliable broadband, cafés in Le Vieux-Longueuil and quick metro links to downtown make it a practical, quieter base for digital nomads commuting into the city.
Top Things to Do in Longueuil
All Attractions ›
- Fort Longueuil (Maison LeMoyne) - Historic fort remnants and heritage museum recounting early colonial Longueuil history.
- Parc Michel-Chartrand - Large green space with trails, a river loop, and recreational facilities for all ages.
- Le Vieux-Longueuil - Old Longueuil neighborhood with churches, small shops, and period architecture.
- Longueuil Ferry and promenade - Riverfront promenade and short ferry links offering quick access to Montreal's riverfront.
- Local bistros and boulangeries - Small bakeries and bistros popular with residents for coffee and fresh pastries.
- Community cultural centers - Neighborhood centers hosting concerts, artisan markets, and family programming throughout the year.
- Hidden riverwalk pockets - Less-crowded riverfront stretches offering quiet benches and birdwatching opportunities.
- Seasonal farmers' markets - Outdoor markets showcasing regional produce, cheeses, and prepared foods during warmer months.
- Montreal - Major city with museums and nightlife just across the river via metro or car.
- Îles-de-Boucherville National Park - Island park offering cycling, kayaking, and seasonal wildlife within easy reach by car.
- Montérégie fruit routes and wineries - Short drives to orchard-country tasting rooms, seasonal fruit stands, and rural scenery.
- Longueuil to Old Montreal ferry ride - Quick water crossing to explore Old Montreal's historic streets and waterfront attractions.
Where to Go in Longueuil #
Vieux-Longueuil
Old Longueuil is compact and pleasant - leafy streets, cafés and a handful of bistros within easy reach of the metro and ferry connections to Montreal. It’s the obvious base if you want quieter lodging while staying close to downtown Montreal via transit.
Top Spots
- Place Charles-Le Moyne - main transport hub and waterfront access.
- Old Longueuil streets - cafés, bakeries and local shops within walking distance.
- Waterfront promenades - views back to Montreal across the river.
Saint-Hubert
Saint‑Hubert feels suburban and practical - an airport, shopping strips and family parks. It’s quieter than Vieux‑Longueuil and useful if you’re arriving by small plane or want big-box shopping without going into the city.
Top Spots
- Longueuil-Saint‑Hubert Airport - small regional airport and aviation museum events.
- Local commercial strips - chain restaurants and shopping options.
- Parks - neighborhood green spaces for families.
Greenfield Park
Greenfield Park is a distinct, anglophone-leaning neighborhood with its own local shops, parks and small eateries. It’s quieter and more residential - a good pick if you want a neighborhood vibe a short transit ride from Montreal’s core.
Top Spots
- Main commercial streets - a mix of independent shops and eateries.
- Community parks - local recreation and seasonal events.
- Bilingual atmosphere - anglophone pockets within Longueuil.
Plan Your Visit to Longueuil #
Best Time to Visit Longueuil #
Visit Longueuil from late spring through early fall for mild weather, festivals and riverfront activities-May to September offers warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings. Winters are long, cold, and snowy, great for winter sports but harsh for casual sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit Longueuil #
Longueuil's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -15°C to 27°C. Abundant rainfall (1013 mm/year), wettest in September, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -5°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 16°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 15°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 97 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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How to Get to Longueuil
Longueuil is the largest city on Montreal's south shore and is easiest to reach via Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) or the nearby Montréal Saint‑Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU). For rail and bus connections use Montréal Central Station or the downtown bus terminal, then transfer onto the Metro Yellow Line to Longueuil-Université‑de‑Sherbrooke for direct access to the city centre.
Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL): The region’s main international airport in Dorval, west of Montreal. To reach Longueuil you can take a taxi or ride‑hail (Uber) across the island and over the Champlain or Victoria bridges - expect roughly 25-40 minutes and about 40-60 CAD depending on traffic. Alternatively, take the STM/ARTM public transit combination (airport buses or shuttle into downtown, then Metro to Berri‑UQAM and the Yellow Line to Longueuil-Université‑de‑Sherbrooke); plan 45-70 minutes and a local transit fare (single ride ~3.50 CAD).
Montréal Saint‑Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU): A smaller airport on the South Shore inside Longueuil’s borough of Saint‑Hubert, used mainly for regional/charter and general aviation. Local RTL buses connect the airport area with Longueuil-Université‑de‑Sherbrooke metro and other neighbourhoods (journeys ~10-25 minutes, fare ~3.50 CAD), or a taxi/ride‑hail will be faster and generally cost in the 15-30 CAD range depending on exact destination.
Train: Long‑distance trains (Via Rail) and most intercity rail services arrive at Montréal Central Station (Gare Centrale) in downtown Montreal. From there transfer to the Metro and use the Yellow Line (via Berri‑UQAM) to reach Longueuil-Université‑de‑Sherbrooke - the metro leg across the river is short and the full transfer from Central to Longueuil generally takes about 15-25 minutes; single‑ride metro fare ~3.50 CAD.
Bus: Intercity buses use the Gare d’autocars de Montréal (downtown) and you can transfer to local RTL buses on the South Shore for the final leg; local RTL routes run between downtown bridges, Longueuil metro and surrounding suburbs. Typical RTL trip times into central Longueuil are 15-40 minutes and single fares are in the same local transit range (~3.50 CAD); schedules vary by route so check RTL/ARTM timetables.
How to Get Around Longueuil
Longueuil is best navigated with a combination of the Metro Yellow Line plus RTL buses - that combo gives the fastest, most predictable access to Montreal and local neighbourhoods. For cross‑region trips or off‑peak travel a car or Exo commuter train can be more convenient; central Longueuil is compact enough to explore on foot or by bike for most short errands.
- Metro (Yellow Line) (3.50 CAD) - The Yellow Line (operated by STM) links Longueuil-Université‑de‑Sherbrooke directly to downtown Montreal (Berri‑UQAM/Berri transfer). It's the quickest public‑transit way into Longueuil from central Montreal - frequent service and a short cross‑river ride. Buy single fares or a day pass on OPUS/ARTM; single‑ride fare ~3.50 CAD. Good for commuters and visitors who want a fast, reliable link into Montréal.
- Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) buses (3.50 CAD) - RTL runs most of the local bus routes across Longueuil and connects neighbourhoods with the metro station and commuter‑rail stops. Buses serve shopping centres, universities and links to Montreal's bridge crossings; frequencies vary by route and time of day. Use RTL or ARTM fares and mobile apps to check schedules - single rides are in the local fare range (~3.50 CAD).
- Exo commuter rail (4.75-8.50 CAD) - Exo commuter trains serve the South Shore (several lines serving different corridors); stations such as Saint‑Lambert and others on the South Shore provide fast commuting into Montreal. Fares are zone‑based under ARTM (buy tickets or commuter passes) and trains run mainly during peak hours with limited off‑peak service. Good for longer suburban commutes and avoiding bridge traffic; expect zone fares higher than a single metro ride.
- Taxi & ride‑hail (Uber) (10-60 CAD) - Taxis and Uber operate across Longueuil and to/from Montreal; licensed taxis are metered and Uber shows an upfront estimate. Short trips inside Longueuil are usually in the low‑teens CAD, while trips to/from YUL or downtown Montreal commonly range 30-60 CAD depending on time and traffic. Rideshares are handy for luggage or late‑night travel when buses run less frequently.
- Driving / Car (5-20 CAD (parking typical)) - Driving gives the most flexibility for exploring the South Shore and suburbs; major routes include Autoroute 20, 10 and 30 with bridge crossings into Montreal. Parking in central Longueuil is generally available but can cost for paid lots - expect typical parking fees of roughly 5-20 CAD depending on location and duration. Be prepared for rush‑hour congestion on bridge approaches into Montreal.
- Bicycle / e‑bike (0-15 CAD) - Longueuil has bike lanes and riverfront paths that are pleasant in good weather; cycling is practical for short trips and commuting when lanes are available. Seasonal bike‑share and rental options exist in and around Montreal/Longueuil - daily rental or bike‑share passes typically range from free (own bike) to around 0-15 CAD for short‑term use. Helmets are recommended and watch for winter conditions that limit biking.
- Walking - Central Longueuil (near the metro, St‑Charles Riverfront and shopping streets) is compact and easily walkable for errands and sightseeing. Walking is the best way to explore neighbourhood cafés, parks and the riverfront; distances to the metro and bus stops are short in the downtown area.
Where to Stay in Longueuil #
- Budget hotels and B&Bs in Longueuil listings - Near metro and commuter links
- Local motels and inns (booking listings) - Affordable, basic comforts
- Hôtel Le Dauphin Montréal‑Longueuil - Comfortable, close to Metro
- Le Dauphin Montreal‑Longueuil (choice mid-range) - Good value, business amenities
- Upscale hotels in Greater Montreal (nearby areas) - Luxury often in central Montreal
- Luxury options primarily in Montreal downtown - Full-service amenities, fine dining
- Hotel Le Dauphin Montréal‑Longueuil - Near Metro, easy Montreal access
- Central Longueuil hotels (booking listings) - Convenient for first visits
- Family-friendly Le Dauphin Longueuil - Rooms with extra beds available
- Apart-hotel listings for families - Kitchenettes and extra space
- Hotels with meeting rooms and Wi‑Fi - Quiet common areas for work
- Coworking in Montreal (short metro ride) - Use Montreal hubs for full facilities
Where to Eat in Longueuil #
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Longueuil's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Longueuil #
Longueuil’s nightlife is concentrated in Old Longueuil and the Place Charles-Le Moyne area near the metro. Expect neighbourhood pubs, dinner spots and occasional live-music evenings rather than large clubs. Public transit (metro to Montreal) runs late; downtown Montreal is a short ride away if you want a bigger night out. Keep an eye on weekend event listings for local concerts.
Best Bets
- Vieux-Longueuil (Old Longueuil) - Historic centre with pubs, restaurants and evening foot traffic.
- Place Charles-Le Moyne area - Transport hub with bars and eateries near the metro entrance.
- Rue Saint-Charles area - Local restaurants and cafés that stay open on weekend nights.
- Local live-music venues - Check listings for community concerts and weekend gigs.
- Parc Michel-Chartrand area - Evening walks and occasional outdoor events in warmer months.
- Neighborhood pubs and microbreweries - Casual spots for local beers and relaxed weekend nights.
Shopping in Longueuil #
Longueuil is a practical place to shop for everyday needs and Quebec products without going into Montreal. Place Longueuil is the city’s main indoor mall; the Vieux‑Longueuil (Old Longueuil) streets host independent boutiques, cafés and services. Seasonal outdoor markets and farmers’ stalls pop up in summer - great for local cheese, produce and crafts. If you need chains and big-box retailers, the south shore and adjacent Brossard malls are a short drive away.
Best Bets
- Place Longueuil - Large indoor mall with national chains, eateries and local boutiques.
- Vieux‑Longueuil (Old Longueuil) - Historic shopping streets with cafés and independent neighbourhood stores.
- Longueuil Farmers' Market (seasonal) - Seasonal market featuring local produce, artisanal foods and crafts.
- Rue Saint‑Charles shops - Mixed retail stretch with boutiques, services and local bakeries.
- Place Charles‑Le Moyne / Transit Corridor - Shopping near the transit hub; convenient for quick errands and cafés.
- South Shore shopping corridors (nearby) - Nearby larger malls and discount retailers a short drive from Longueuil.
